An Interpretation of Person-Centered Thinking in Services and Supports
In an interview, Dr. Michael Smull describes five elements that exemplify a person-centered thinking environment that are commensurate with the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) rules.*
These five elements were described by Michael Smull, the founder of Person-Centered Thinking practices and tools which apply to people who receive services and support.
Moving From Service Life to Community Life
Service Life
- “Important for” addressed
- No organized effort to address “important to”
A Good Paid Life
- “Important to” and “important for” are present
- The closest people are paid support or family
- Few real connections
Community Life
- “Important to” and “important for” are present
- Active circle of support
- Included in community life
In the summer of 2012, Michael Smull gave a 2-day workshop in Kentucky, hosted by the Kentucky Division of Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities. During this training, he challenged people as to whether or not it is reasonable for everyone who receives paid support to be given at least “A Good Paid Life”.
*CMS is the federal agency that approves all Home and Community-Based Waivers and, in Kentucky, funds 70% of all services through these waivers which serve about 25,000 Kentuckians with disabilities.
Source: The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices, Inc. 2008
Data source: Michael Smull reflections on Person-Centered Thinking, retrieved on 7/5/19 from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2rmLtU6FYBE