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Person-centered planning is a federally required approach to developing service plans for individuals receiving HCBS waiver services. Under the 2014 HCBS Settings Rule, all person-centered plans must reflect the individual's preferences, strengths, and goals — not just their deficits and service needs. The planning process must include the individual (with accommodations for communication needs), be directed by the individual to the maximum extent possible, and involve people chosen by the individual. The plan must identify services and supports that help the person achieve personally defined outcomes, address health and safety in the least restrictive way, and include strategies for resolving disagreements. Person-centered planning replaces the older 'professional-knows-best' model with a collaborative approach that respects autonomy.
Federal law requires your waiver service plan to be person-centered. If your case manager develops a plan without meaningful input from you or your family, you can request a revision. Understanding this requirement strengthens your advocacy.