In this episode of the IDD Health Matters Podcast, host Dr. Craig Escudé welcomes Valerie Bradley, a pioneer in the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) field. Valerie is the president and co-founder of the Human Services Research Institute (HSRI), an organization dedicated to advancing policies and practices in human services. With over four decades of experience, Valerie has been at the forefront of deinstitutionalization efforts, working to move individuals with IDD from large institutions into more community-based, supportive environments. Her expertise and passion for improving the quality of life for individuals with disabilities have earned her a significant reputation in the field.

During the conversation, Valerie reflects on the successes and ongoing challenges of deinstitutionalization, particularly the transition from large institutional settings to smaller community homes. While progress has been made in creating residential and employment supports, Valerie notes the initial missteps of replicating institutional models in smaller settings and the importance of fostering truly integrated community living. She also highlights the impact of the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) Settings Rule, a landmark policy change that has advanced the rights of individuals with IDD to live more independent and self-directed lives.

The discussion delves into broader systemic issues, including the workforce crisis in the caregiving profession and the need for enhanced training and support for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Valerie emphasizes the value of self-direction for individuals with IDD, enabling them to take control of their own care and use personalized budgets to hire staff. Her insights provide a long view of the field, tracing its evolution and underscoring the need for continued progress to ensure equitable healthcare and meaningful community inclusion for people with IDD.