The Employment and Community First CHOICES program is administered by TennCare through its contracted managed care organizations (MCO).  It offers services to people of all ages with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).  This includes individuals with significant disabilities. Services in the program will help people become employed and live as independently as possible in the community.  All new enrollment is in the Employment and Community First CHOICES program, as DDA’s waivers are closed to new enrollment.

We provide services that help clients with I/DD gain as much independence as possible. Clients are supported to live with their families or in the community, not in an institution. Our services are available for adults with I/DD who do not live with family but need support where they live.

We provide support services in the residence of the client based on their assessed level of need. Clients live with 2 to 3 roommates in a private home setting, which offers additional support in meeting monthly financial obligations and fosters the development of meaningful friendships. Our services include medication administration, medical oversight, and assistance with personal care, household chores, transportation to appointments, and participation in community events. We are dedicated to providing all the necessary support to help clients live as independently as possible.

Employment and Community First CHOICES can help clients with I/DD explore the possibility of working. Services can also help them learn skills for work, find a job, and keep a job. This could be a part-time job, a full-time job, or self-employment. Working provides an opportunity for the clients to earn money, learn new skills, meet new people, and play an important role in their communities. Work can also help them stay healthy and build self-confidence.

Additional services assist clients in learning and engaging in activities both at home and within the community to help them achieve their goals. For those living with their families, these services support the families in helping the clients become independent. Services also encourage community involvement and provide peer support for both the clients and their families.

According to the Tennessee Division of TennCare, there are 5 benefit groups in Employment and Community First CHOICES (groups 4 – 8).

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