A well-trained, fairly compensated, and respected direct support professional (DSP) workforce is essential to providing the necessary supports and services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) where they live and work.

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DSPs are an integral part of life in the community for people with IDD. They work directly with people with IDD to support them to participate in their communities.

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The quality and effectiveness of Medicaid-funded long term supports and services for persons with IDD depend upon qualified providers of supports and services with necessary skills and training and a fair wage for this important work.