Disability advocates in Georgia fight to fix growing waitlist for caregiver services [Video]

ATLANTA, Ga. (Atlanta News First) – The New Option Waiver Program (NOW) and Comprehensive Support Waiver Program (COMP) support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

According to the Georgia government, they are “for eligible people with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities who require an intermediate care facility.”

The Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) states on its website that the programs offer an array of services designed specifically for the population such as support employment, residential services, specialized medical equipment and supplies, vehicle adaptation, and behavior support services.

In 2023, Commissioner Kevin Tanner said the program was in a state of crisis. There are more than 3,000 adults with disabilities in Georgia waiting for caregiver services.

Thais Kaiser fought for years to get her son Isaiah, who has autism, a caregiver through the state disabilities waiver program. Isaiah requires 24/7 care. Kaiser says it felt like a turnstile …