Prevention Saves Lives and Dollars: The Cost-Saving Power of HRST

 

A Smarter Investment in Healthcare

 

Healthcare costs continue to rise, and for organizations supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), finding ways to deliver excellent care while protecting resources is a constant challenge.

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (OH DODD)’s evaluation of the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST®) shows that prevention is the answer. The HRST was developed by and is exclusive to IntellectAbility to help organizations assess health risks for people with IDD.

 

What is the HRST?

 

The HRST is the leading screening tool for intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) risk management and support. It is a HIPAA-compliant, web-based rating instrument developed to detect health destabilization in at-risk populations and ensure that proper care and support are provided at all times to avoid unnecessary suffering and death.

The HRST monitors for health risks associated with various intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, which specifically affect systems of the body and the person’s ability to engage in life. This provides all supporters with the information needed to respond appropriately.

By identifying risks early, the HRST allows teams to assess an individual’s ability to perform daily activities and monitor body health, enabling action before issues become emergencies. The HRST assigns risk levels based on established criteria.

The HRST provides valuable information that helps teams understand and learn about health risks. This can lead to significant benefits for both individuals and organizations. Early identification of health risks can also support eligibility for disability benefits.

 

What Ohio Found

 

Supporters eligible to participate in the evaluation made one thing clear: the HRST makes a real difference.

• 79% expected fewer ER visits.
• 69% expected fewer unnecessary medications.
• 77% expected overall cost savings.

To ensure ongoing monitoring and support, regular HRST assessments should be scheduled over time.

Organizations looking for similar positive outcomes can use the HRST to support their teams and improve care. Consistent use of the HRST at different times helps maintain health and prevent emergencies.

Every avoided hospitalization or fall isn’t just a financial win. It means someone’s life was made safer, healthier, and less traumatic.

 

From Reactive to Proactive Risk Reduction

 

Traditionally, healthcare systems have spent most of their resources reacting to crises. The HRST flips that model. As one of the essential tools developed for risk reduction, the HRST gives agencies clear, objective insights, enabling proactive planning that prevents emergencies before they happen. Continuous oversight of health risks is crucial for effective risk reduction and operational stability.

For providers and payers, this shift is powerful. It means the HRST enables a range of solutions and actions that organizations can implement to start proactive planning, including:

• More accurate, individualized health plans.
• Reduced waste on avoidable care.
• Better outcomes for people supported.
• A more sustainable system overall.
• Support for field teams in their on-site work to assess and address risks.

These changes help teams respond appropriately to health risks and achieve effective risk reduction. The HRST enables organizations to expand their services and better protect the people they support. It also supports the work of healthcare professionals in the field, helping them deliver practical, on-site solutions.

 

The Bottom Line

 

The Ohio evaluation confirms what we’ve long known: investing in prevention is both the ethical and financially sound choice, and aligns with our mission to provide quality care.

With the HRST, organizations don’t have to choose between quality care and cost savings. They can achieve both while enhancing their service offerings and demonstrating a commitment to serving people with IDD. It is tested and trusted to deliver reliable results.

To read the full report, click here. For more resources, visit IntellectAbility’s website.

Intellectability Academy: Health & Safety Training That Meets the Real Risks Facing People with IDD

 

Health and safety for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) is rarely about a single crisis moment. More often, it is shaped by everyday decisions — how meals are prepared, how pain is noticed or missed, how equipment is maintained, how medications accumulate over time, and how communication either builds trust or creates confusion, while challenging behaviors and mental health concerns can also signal underlying risks. These are not abstract concerns. They are the moments where risk quietly grows, or where prevention can truly take root.

For provider agencies and support teams in community-based support environments, the challenge is clear: traditional training often focuses on compliance or isolated topics, while real-world risk is layered, ongoing, and deeply human. Recognizing this gap, IntellectAbility developed a new Health & Safety eLearn course series designed to address the realities of day-to-day IDD support.

 

Why Everyday Health & Safety Training Matters for People with IDD

 

Many of the most serious health outcomes for people with IDD are linked to issues that begin quietly: unsafe mealtime practices, unrecognized pain, poorly fitting or neglected medical equipment, communication barriers, or the cumulative effects of multiple medications. These risks often unfold gradually and can be overlooked in busy support environments.

Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), house managers, support coordinators, supporters, and families are on the front lines of these moments. Yet they are frequently expected to identify, document, and respond to complex health concerns, including recognizing symptoms that may indicate underlying issues, without training that reflects the nuances of their role. Effective health and safety education must therefore do more than deliver information — it must build observation skills, confidence, and practical decision-making that translates into safer outcomes.

 

A Practical, Layered Approach to Learning

 

The Health & Safety eLearn Courses were intentionally designed as a flexible yet cohesive training series. The courses form a structured curriculum specifically developed for professionals working in IDD support services — such as adult day programs and residential care centers — ensuring practical application and immediate relevance to daily needs. Each course can be taken individually to address a specific training need, allowing organizations to respond quickly to identified gaps or priority areas. At the same time, the courses were developed to build upon one another, reinforcing shared concepts such as observation, documentation, communication, and risk awareness across multiple health and safety domains.

When licensed together as a complete package, the six courses create a more comprehensive learning pathway — one that mirrors how risk actually presents in real life. Mealtime safety connects to communication. Pain recognition intersects with polypharmacy. Equipment maintenance influences mobility, comfort, and overall health. Taken as a whole, the series strengthens teams’ ability to recognize patterns, not just isolated issues, and respond earlier and more effectively. The delivery of these courses is designed to support different learning needs, offering flexible online access and self-paced modules.

These courses are intended for provider agencies, clinicians, and support staff who work with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, equipping them with practical skills to improve health and safety outcomes.

 

What the Six Courses Cover

 

Diet & Meal Planning for Provider Agency Staff

Mealtime is one of the most routine — and riskiest — parts of daily support. This course helps staff interpret diet orders, plan meals that respect both nutritional needs and personal dignity, and consider the unique needs of children with IDD, as well as shop and prepare food safely for people with allergies, texture modifications, or special dietary requirements. Improper diet or unsafe mealtime practices can contribute to illness in people with IDD.

 

Plate It Safe: Avoiding Mealtime Risks

 

Unsafe mealtime practices remain a leading cause of preventable health emergencies. This course addresses the “Dangerous Dozen” mealtime risks, silent aspiration, and the importance of observing and supporting DSPs in maintaining safe, respectful eating environments, as well as the need to report any incidents or concerns promptly. Tailored learning tracks ensure relevance for both provider staff and support coordination roles.

Techniques in Proper Maintenance of Durable Medical Equipment

 

Durable medical equipment, particularly wheelchairs, plays a crucial role in enhancing comfort, mobility, and safety, with employees responsible for regular checks to ensure proper function and a proper fit.

Learners gain practical guidance on routine maintenance, recognizing poor fit or discomfort, and understanding when issues require reporting or professional intervention, as certain equipment problems may point to broader health or safety concerns.

 

Effective Communication for Direct Support Professionals

 

Communication is foundational to health, safety, and trust; applying key principles of effective communication is essential for achieving positive outcomes. This course explores expressive and receptive communication, presuming competence, recognizing emotional and psychological discomfort, and using person-centered strategies to de-escalate challenging situations and strengthen relationships, incorporating trauma-informed care approaches.

 

Understanding Polypharmacy

 

Medication management can become increasingly complex over time, especially when addressing the mental health needs of individuals with IDD. This course introduces the concept of polypharmacy and helps learners recognize potential concerns, monitor medication use, and understand how medication-related risks can occur gradually, as well as when additional oversight or review may be necessary.

 

Understanding and Recognizing Pain in People with IDD

 

Pain is often underrecognized in people with IDD, particularly when communication barriers exist. This course builds skills in identifying physical, behavioral, and emotional indicators and symptoms of pain, as well as documenting and reporting concerns effectively to healthcare professionals and collaborating with nurses for comprehensive pain assessment.

 

Built for Individual Learning — Stronger as a Series

 

Organizations may choose to assign individual courses based on role, experience level, or immediate needs. However, when implemented as a full series, the Health & Safety eLearn Courses offer a more integrated training experience. These programs are designed to enhance staff skills, support employee retention, and foster leadership development within IDD service providers. Concepts introduced in earlier courses are reinforced and expanded upon in later ones, supporting deeper understanding and more consistent application across teams.

This approach allows agencies to scale training strategically, starting where it makes sense, while working toward a shared foundation of health and safety knowledge that supports consistency, oversight, and quality across services.

 

Who These Courses Are Designed For

 

The Health & Safety eLearn series supports a wide range of roles across the IDD system, including DSPs, house managers, support coordinators, intensive support coordinators, planning list administrators, state support staff, frontline supervisors, and providers. Each course is intentionally structured to align with the responsibilities these professionals carry every day, making the learning immediately applicable whether taken alone or as part of the full package.

Completing these trainings can also enhance employment opportunities for participants by equipping them with specialized skills valued in the IDD field.

 

Flexible Learning That Fits Real Work Environments

 

All six courses are available 24/7 through IntellectAbility’s eLearning Platform (eLP), allowing learners to progress at their own pace. The platform automatically tracks progress, monitors completion, and generates certificates to support oversight and regulatory requirements. Many modules also offer continuing education credits for professionals, supporting licensing and certification needs.

No additional downloads are needed — everything is accessible directly through the platform, with course development managed by our dedicated Productions department.

IntellectAbility develops training courses in partnership with recognized organizations to ensure high-quality, specialized content for the IDD community.

Accessibility Features That Empower Every Learner

 

Ensuring that every learner can access and benefit from training is fundamental to quality support for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. IntellectAbility’s Health & Safety eLearn Courses are designed with accessibility at their core, recognizing that both individuals with disabilities and the direct support professionals who serve them deserve inclusive, barrier-free education.

By prioritizing accessibility, IntellectAbility empowers direct support professionals and direct support staff to gain the knowledge and skills needed to provide high-quality, person-centered support. This commitment extends to all individuals—whether they are learning to better serve people with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, or other complex needs. Accessible training materials help ensure that no one is left behind, supporting the development of a more skilled, confident, and inclusive workforce.

Ultimately, accessible education is about more than compliance—it’s about equity, dignity, and the ability for every person to learn, grow, and contribute. With these features in place, organizations can be confident that their teams are equipped to provide direct support that truly meets the needs of people with IDD, fostering safer, healthier, and more inclusive communities.

 

Strengthening Safety, Dignity, and Quality of Life

 

Health and safety training should never feel disconnected from the people it is meant to protect. By offering both individual courses and a comprehensive, integrated series, the Health & Safety eLearn Courses provide organizations with the flexibility they need, allowing centers, such as state-supported living centers, to implement the training and improve the safety and quality of life for people with IDD. When staff are equipped to recognize early warning signs, communicate effectively, and respond thoughtfully across multiple domains, the result is not just reduced risk. It is safer systems, stronger teams, and a better quality of life for the people they support.

 

Additional Resources:

–          Learn more and enroll in these courses

–          Explore the IntellectAbility Academy and browse full course offering

–          Download the Health and Safety Course Overview

Case Study: Discovery Living Strengthens Staff Preparedness with Fatal Five Fundamentals Training

 

Executive Summary

 

After implementing IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals training program, Discovery Living Inc., an Iowa provider supporting 150 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), achieved significant improvements in health outcomes, staff preparedness, and operational efficiency.

A one-year outcome analysis found a 37% reduction in emergency department and urgent care visits, decreasing from 254 visits in 2024 to 159 in 2025. This reduction translated into estimated annual medical cost savings of $274,410 and staffing overtime savings of $15,237. In addition, 97% of staff reported feeling better prepared to recognize preventable health risks, while 85% were able to apply their training immediately in daily practice.

These results demonstrate how proactive health surveillance training can reduce avoidable medical crises, strengthen early intervention, improve the quality of care, and support long-term financial sustainability for organizations that support people with IDD.

 

Background

 

Supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) requires consistent vigilance, strong clinical awareness, and systems that empower staff to recognize risk early.

Discovery Living Inc. is committed to helping people with IDD live healthy, meaningful lives through proactive, person-centered support. To strengthen staff capacity and reduce preventable medical crises, the organization pursued training focused on the “Fatal Five” — constipation, aspiration, dehydration, seizures, and sepsis.

These five conditions are the leading preventable causes of illness and premature death among people with IDD. In fact, people with IDD are more than twice as likely to die prematurely as the general population (The Center for Inclusive Health).

By investing in targeted health surveillance education, Discovery Living aimed to move beyond reactive crisis response and toward a culture of early intervention, shared responsibility, and long-term wellness.

 

Funding the Initiative

 

This project was made possible by a $5,000 mini-grant awarded by Iowa’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). The UCEDD offered up to ten mini-grants to community agencies, healthcare organizations, community-based services, and centers to promote high-quality healthcare for people with IDD.

Discovery Living’s successful application focused on educating its employees through IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn program. The grant enabled all staff to access the training via IntellectAbility’s Electronic Learning Platform (eLP). The course comprises seven individual modules, along with associated resources and downloadable materials designed specifically for frontline supporters.

 

Implementation

 

To build awareness, Discovery Living introduced the Fatal Five concepts during an all-agency training on March 27, 2024, highlighting why this training would be central to the organization’s mission moving forward. The session began with an overview of the Fatal Five presented by Dr. Craig Escudé. Staff were encouraged to actively participate, ask questions, and were informed of the expectation to complete the eLearning course.

Following the training, staff completed the Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn course, which:

• Identifies the top five preventable causes of death in people with IDD

• Guides learners through real-world scenarios for spotting and responding to changes in health status

• Incorporates visual aids, interactive questions, and downloadable reference materials

• Emphasizes practical skills that staff can apply immediately in their daily work

 

What the Data Shows: Measurable Impact of Fatal Five Training

 

A one-year outcome analysis at Discovery Living found that Fatal Five Fundamentals training led to significant improvements in both health outcomes and operational efficiency. The training helped staff work proactively to mitigate health risks, resulting in improved outcomes for people with IDD.

After implementing the training, the organization experienced a 37% reduction in combined emergency department and urgent care visits, from 254 in 2024 to 159 in 2025. Even after excluding individuals with the highest medical utilization, visits still declined by 33%, demonstrating that the improvements were not driven by chance or population changes.

This reduction in emergency care translated into meaningful cost savings. Based on national healthcare estimates and IDD-specific utilization data, Discovery Living achieved:

• $255,210 in reduced emergency department costs
• $19,200 in urgent care savings
• $274,410 in total estimated annual medical savings

In addition, fewer emergency visits resulted in staffing efficiencies. The study estimated approximately $15,237 in annual overtime savings, along with indirect savings related to transportation, scheduling, documentation, and follow-up care. These efforts are aimed at continually improving health and wellness for the people served.

 

Staff Confidence and Early Intervention

 

Survey data from 60 staff members revealed that the training strengthened frontline clinical awareness and decision-making. The training also increased staff understanding of health risks and the importance of making decisions based on early warning signs.

After completing the course:

• 97% felt better prepared to recognize Fatal Five conditions
• 92% felt better prepared to prevent them
• 85% could apply what they learned immediately
• 83% would recommend the training
• The overall experience was rated 4.15 out of 5 stars

Staff reported increased communication with supervisors, guardians, and healthcare providers, often leading to earlier evaluations and treatment.

As one participant shared:

“Learners felt empowered to observe, make informed decisions, and act when necessary.”

The training also emphasized positive control, empowering staff to support autonomy and safety.

These changes reflect a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive health monitoring and early intervention.

 

Cultural and Practice Transformation

 

Beyond measurable outcomes, Discovery Living Inc. observed a cultural shift across the organization. Staff began discussing health concerns more openly and collaboratively, leading to earlier intervention and improved support coordination.

This approach reflects a move from traditional risk management to “replacing risk” with proactive health and wellness strategies. By focusing on prevention and person-centered support, staff are helping improve stability, engagement, and quality of life for the people they support. The organization is also promoting positive control by implementing person-centered approaches that empower people and preserve their autonomy.

 

Why These Results Matter for Providers

 

For organizations supporting people with IDD, emergency department visits carry significant clinical, operational, and emotional consequences. Each visit disrupts staffing, strains budgets, and reduces continuity of care.

This case study demonstrates that targeted health surveillance training can:

• Reduce avoidable medical emergencies
• Improve staff confidence and consistency
• Lower healthcare and staffing costs
• Strengthen collaboration with medical providers
• Improve the quality of life for people with IDD

Rather than relying on crisis response, trained teams are better equipped to identify early warning signs and intervene before emergencies occur.

 

About IntellectAbility’s Academy Courses

 

IntellectAbility’s Academy offers comprehensive healthcare and person-centered support training for providers serving people with IDD. Courses support clinical and non-clinical staff and are designed to complement organizational policies and quality initiatives.

Many courses are NADSP-accredited and offer CME or CEU credits, providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers learners to take informed action.

Each eLearn course includes:

• Illustrations
• Knowledge checks
• Real-world scenarios
• Retention-focused learning tools

 

Conclusion

 

Through UCEDD grant support and IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals training, Discovery Living significantly improved staff awareness, confidence, and collaboration around critical health concerns.

By strengthening early detection, communication, and preventive healthcare, the organization created a safer, more responsive environment for people with IDD. When paired with validated health risk screening tools such as the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST®), these efforts further support early intervention and targeted support planning.

This case study demonstrates how evidence-based training can directly improve outcomes, reduce costs, and strengthen support systems for people with IDD.

 

Additional Resources:

 

• Visit our training page to explore how Fatal Five Fundamentals can benefit your organization.
• Download our free brochure to learn more about IntellectAbility’s Academy courses.
• Download the IntellectAbility and Discovery Living Inc. case study and infographic to learn more about the impact of the Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn.

 

What Is Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training (vPCTT)? A Practical Guide for Providers and Support Professionals

 

In today’s healthcare and human services landscape, being person-centered is no longer optional. Person centeredness is a foundational approach that empowers individuals to maintain control over their own lives by focusing on their preferences, strengths, and personal goals, regardless of disabilities or life circumstances. For organizations supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), person-centered thinking is at the core of ethical, effective, and compliant care.

The philosophy of person-centered thinking serves as the foundation for this approach, guiding the values, skills, and tools that promote individual autonomy and meaningful support.

That’s where Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training (vPCTT) comes in. Understanding the core concept of person-centered thinking, such as the importance of ‘Important To and For,’ is essential for effective support.

This online, instructor-led training helps professionals build the mindset, skills, and tools needed to truly place people with IDD at the center of planning, services, and decision-making—no matter where staff are located.

But what exactly is vPCTT? And how does it work in practice?

Let’s break it down.

 

Understanding Person-Centered Thinking

 

Person-centered thinking is a framework that focuses on understanding what truly matters to a person beyond what’s important for them.

Rather than designing services around systems, schedules, or convenience, this approach emphasizes:

• Individual strengths, preferences, and goals
• The importance of knowledge about the person’s preferences, strengths, routines, and needs to inform personalized support
• Meaningful relationships and community inclusion
• Choice, autonomy, and self-direction
• Respect for personal history, culture, and identity
• Collaborative decision-making

Person-centered supports are support approaches that prioritize an individual’s preferences, strengths, and needs, empowering people with intellectual and developmental disabilities by focusing on individualized strategies that put the person at the center of planning and decision-making to enhance their quality of life.

Person-centered thinking involves a process of discovery and collaboration to ensure supports are truly individualized.

In short, it shifts care from “doing for” to “working with.”

Person-centered thinking is also closely connected to federal and state regulations, including CMS Access Rule requirements and HCBS standards, making it both a best practice and a compliance priority.

 

What Is Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training (vPCTT)?

 

Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training (vPCTT) is a live, interactive, online course designed to teach person-centered practices through real-world application. This class offers an engaging learning experience, featuring interactive activities and resource-rich materials that help participants build essential person-centered skills.

Unlike self-paced modules or recorded videos, vPCTT is delivered in real time by certified instructors. Participants engage directly with trainers and peers through discussion, activities, and case examples.

Most programs follow a multi-day format—often three full days like IntellectAbility—allowing learners to develop a deep, practical understanding rather than surface-level familiarity. Participants must complete the full course to receive certification and ensure a comprehensive understanding of person-centered practices.

 

How IntellectAbility’s vPCTT Works

 

1. Live Online Instruction

vPCTT takes place via video conferencing platforms like Zoom. Participants join scheduled sessions from their workplace or home, eliminating travel costs and time barriers.

Sessions typically include:

• Guided instruction
• Small-group breakouts
• Interactive exercises
• Reflection activities
• Real-life scenario analysis

This structure keeps learners actively involved rather than passively watching.

To enroll in vPCTT sessions, participants are required to complete an online registration form.

 

2. Certified, Experienced Trainers

High-quality vPCTT programs are led by instructors who are formally certified in person-centered thinking methodologies and have hands-on experience in IDD and human services. The training curriculum was developed in collaboration with key partners in the field to ensure it meets current standards and best practices.

This ensures that training goes beyond theory and addresses:

• Day-to-day support challenges
• Documentation requirements
• Team communication issues
• Leadership and culture change

Participants learn not just what to do, but how to do it in real environments.

 

3. Applied Learning Tools

A major strength of vPCTT is its focus on practical tools that can be used immediately, such as:

• Communication and listening strategies
• Person-centered profiles
• Decision-making supports
• Relationship mapping, which helps foster supportive relationships and environments that promote trust and independence
• Support planning frameworks
• Risk and safety balance tools
• Tools to help participants identify individual strengths, preferences, and support needs

These resources help teams turn values into action.

 

4. Accreditation and Continuing Education

Many virtual person-centered thinking programs are accredited and offer continuing education credits, with many programs being approved by relevant accrediting bodies. This makes vPCTT valuable for:

• Direct support professionals
• Case managers
• Nurses and clinicians
• Supervisors and administrators
• Quality and compliance staff

It supports both professional development and regulatory expectations.

Note: Please check specific course details for prerequisites, approved accrediting bodies, and eligibility for continuing education credits.

 

Who Should Take vPCTT?

 

Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training is beneficial for professionals across the entire support system, including:

• Community-based providers
• Residential and day program staff
• Care coordinators and service planners
• State and county administrators
• Healthcare providers working with IDD populations to deliver person-centered care
• Leadership and management teams
• Agency staff and agencies seeking organization-wide implementation

Effective communication between healthcare providers and patients with intellectual and developmental disabilities is essential to ensure tailored, person-centered care.

Supporters—including direct support professionals, caregivers, and agency staff—play a crucial role in facilitating person-centered practices, promoting autonomy, and helping individuals with disabilities live independently and with dignity across various settings.

Because person-centered practices affect every level of service delivery, organizations often train multidisciplinary teams together.

 

Key Benefits of Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training

 

1. Improved Quality of Support

When staff understand what matters most to the people they support, services become more responsive, respectful, and effective. Person-centered practices empower individuals to achieve their personal goals and maintain positive control over their lives, ensuring that support strategies promote autonomy and person-led decision-making.

This leads to:

• Better engagement
• Increased satisfaction
• Stronger trust
• More meaningful outcomes

 

2. Stronger Compliance and Documentation

Person-centered approaches support compliance with CMS and state regulations by aligning care plans with individual preferences and needs.

Training helps staff document services in ways that reflect genuine person-centered practice—reducing audit risk and improving quality reviews. Conducting a review of key person-centered thinking concepts at the end of training is essential to reinforce understanding and retention, ensuring staff consistently apply these principles in their documentation and daily practice.

 

3. Workforce Development and Retention

Staff who feel equipped, valued, and confident are more likely to stay in their roles.

vPCTT supports workforce stability by:

• Reducing burnout
• Improving communication
• Strengthening team culture
• Clarifying expectations

 

4. Accessible, Scalable Learning

Because it is virtual, vPCTT makes high-quality training accessible to:

• Rural providers
• Multi-site organizations
• Remote employees
• Smaller agencies with limited travel budgets

Organizations can train more staff without sacrificing instructional quality.

 

How vPCTT Supports Organizational Culture Change

 

One of the most powerful outcomes of virtual person-centered thinking training is its impact on organizational culture.

When implemented effectively, vPCTT helps organizations move toward:

• Shared language around support and dignity
• Consistent decision-making practices
• Collaborative leadership models
• Stronger accountability systems
• Promotion of self-determination by empowering individuals and staff to make choices, exercise independence, and have greater control over their lives

Rather than being “one more training,” it becomes part of how the organization operates.

 

What to Look for in a Quality vPCTT Program

 

Not all virtual trainings are equal. When evaluating a vPCTT program, look for:

✔ Live, instructor-led sessions (not just recordings)
✔ Certified and experienced trainers
✔ Interactive learning components
✔ Practical tools and resources
✔ Accreditation or CE options
✔ Ongoing support or follow-up resources
✔ Connection to a recognized learning community, such as The Learning Community for Person Centered Practices, for ongoing support, resources, and professional development

Some participants may prefer a classroom-based course format, depending on availability or organizational requirements.

A strong program should feel engaging, relevant, and immediately applicable.

 

Why Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Matters More Than Ever

 

As healthcare and disability services continue to evolve, systems are under pressure to improve outcomes, reduce risk, and demonstrate value. Person-centered thinking is especially important for individuals with mental illness, as it ensures that planning and treatment strategies are tailored to each person’s unique needs, supporting more effective recovery and individualized care.

Person-centered thinking provides a foundation for:

• Ethical service delivery
• Preventative support models
• Equity-focused care
• Sustainable workforce development

Virtual training makes these principles accessible to more organizations than ever before.

 

Is vPCTT Right for Your Organization?

 

If your organization is seeking to:

• Strengthen person-centered planning
• Improve compliance
• Develop staff skills
• Enhance service quality
• Build long-term sustainability

…then Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training is a strategic investment, not just a learning opportunity. Pursue the journey of person-centered transformation with vPCTT and empower your team to deliver truly individualized, compassionate support.

 

Why Choose IntellectAbility for Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training?

 

When it comes to person-centered thinking, who delivers the training matters.

At IntellectAbility, person-centered practice is not treated as a checkbox or compliance exercise. It is embedded in everything we do—from clinical education to workforce development to quality improvement.

As a nationally recognized leader in IDD health and support systems, IntellectAbility brings a unique depth of experience to Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training.

 

A Trusted National Leader in IDD Education

For more than two decades, IntellectAbility has partnered with providers, state agencies, and healthcare systems to improve outcomes for people with IDD.

Our work spans:

• Health risk management and prevention
• Workforce training and certification
• Quality assurance and compliance
• System-wide improvement initiatives

This national perspective allows us to design training that reflects real-world challenges—not just ideal scenarios.

 

Certified Trainers With Real-World Experience

 

IntellectAbility’s vPCTT courses are led by certified person-centered thinking instructors who bring extensive field experience in disability services, healthcare, and human services.

Our trainers understand:

• Regulatory expectations
• Staffing and workforce pressures
• Documentation realities
• Leadership and culture change

Participants learn from professionals who actively work within the systems they serve.

 

Integrated With Evidence-Based Tools and Resources

Unlike standalone training providers, IntellectAbility integrates person-centered thinking into a broader ecosystem of evidence-based solutions, including:

• Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST®)
• IntellectAbility Academy eLearning
• Curriculum in IDD Healthcare®

This allows organizations to connect person-centered values directly to health, safety, and quality outcomes.

 

Focused on Long-Term Impact

Our approach goes beyond “checking the training box.”

IntellectAbility designs vPCTT programs to support:

• Sustainable practice change
• Leadership development
• Team alignment
• Continuous quality improvement

Organizations leave with tools and strategies they can apply long after the training ends.

 

Proven Track Record With Providers and States Nationwide

IntellectAbility works with organizations in all 50 states, supporting thousands of professionals each year.

This nationwide reach ensures our training reflects:

• Regional regulatory differences
• Diverse service models
• Urban and rural system needs
• Varying organizational capacities

Your team benefits from best practices gathered across the country.

 

Final Thoughts

Virtual Person-Centered Thinking Training bridges the gap between values and practice. Through live instruction, certified trainers, and applied tools, it helps professionals create support systems that truly reflect the voices, goals, and dignity of people with IDD.

In an increasingly digital and distributed workforce, vPCTT ensures that person-centered care remains personal, intentional, and impactful.

 

Additional Resources:

• Person-Centered Services Overview – IntellectAbility
• Watch a webinar with one of our Person-Centered Certified Trainers here

Improving Healthcare for People with IDD: IntellectAbility Launches New Quality Improvement Program Recognized by ABMS

 

People with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience some of the highest rates of preventable health complications and premature death in the U.S., often due to gaps in healthcare training, limited provider confidence, and a lack of person-centered approaches in clinical settings.

Intellectual disability typically begins before the age of 18 and is often present at birth, affecting an individual’s physical, intellectual, and emotional development. Developmental disabilities are characterized by chronic conditions that affect multiple body parts and systems of the body, and can include syndromes such as Down syndrome, autism, cerebral palsy, and other disabilities, all of which can affect the well-being and quality of life of individuals and their families. Various organizations are dedicated to supporting people with intellectual or developmental disabilities and advancing their care.

IntellectAbility, a leader in healthcare software and education for people with IDD, is taking a major step toward changing that narrative.

IntellectAbility has announced a new quality improvement (QI) program, Improving Care for Patients with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), now recognized through the American Board of Medical Specialties Portfolio Program™ (ABMS Portfolio Program).

 

Elevating Standards in IDD Healthcare Education

 

The ABMS Portfolio Program is a nationally recognized initiative that rewards physicians and physician assistants (PAs) who engage in meaningful QI activities as part of their continuing certification. Through this collaboration, ABMS members can now fulfill Maintenance of Certification (MOC) requirements while enhancing their ability to deliver high-quality, person-centered care to people with IDD.

The new QI program leverages IntellectAbility’s evidence-based Curriculum in IDD Healthcare, a six-module eLearning course designed to close the knowledge gap in medical training.

Each module provides practical, actionable guidance for diagnosing and managing common yet often misinterpreted conditions in people with IDD — including the Fatal Five, aspiration, bowel obstruction, dehydration, seizures, and infection/sepsis. The curriculum also addresses deficits in intellectual functioning, adaptive behavior, intelligence, and other essential skills, including life skills, problem-solving, and general mental abilities, all of which are crucial for people with IDD to function independently.

Clinicians are encouraged to learn more about these areas to enhance their understanding and improve care for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

 

Supported by Elevance Health

 

This initiative was made possible through the generous support of Elevance Health, whose commitment to health equity aligns closely with IntellectAbility’s mission to improve outcomes and quality of life for people with disabilities.

Elevance Health is committed to supporting the well-being of children and families through its efforts to expand access to support services and resources related to IDD.

The organization offers a range of services, including specialized services for people with IDD, to meet the needs of children and families.

“Most healthcare providers are not adequately trained to meet the unique healthcare needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,” explains Dr. Craig Escudé, President of IntellectAbility. “The Curriculum in IDD Healthcare enhances clinicians’ confidence and clinical skills while helping them meet Maintenance of Certification requirements and earn CME credits. With one course, clinicians can meet professional requirements and improve care for an underserved population.”

Dr. Escudé adds, “Our partnership with Elevance Health represents a groundbreaking collaboration that combines clinical expertise, data-driven insights, and person-centered tools to help address the often-complex healthcare needs of people with IDD.”

 

Joining a Community of National Leaders

 

As the newest ABMS Portfolio Program Sponsor, IntellectAbility joins a distinguished network of hospitals, academic medical centers, specialty societies, and government agencies—all dedicated to advancing healthcare quality through education and continuous improvement.

These organizations, including facilities and centers, support a broader category of intellectual and developmental disabilities, ensuring comprehensive care and regulatory compliance across multiple conditions.

 

Take the Next Step: Strengthen Your Clinical Skills in IDD Care

 

For clinicians, educators, and healthcare systems seeking to develop lasting competence in this area, IntellectAbility’s Curriculum in IDD Healthcare (CIDDH) provides flexible, evidence-based online learning that bridges the gap between clinical knowledge and real-world practice.

The course equips clinicians to utilize health risk screening tools to detect health risks, such as the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST®), which assigns scores to behaviorally related rating items to identify health risks and determine healthcare levels.

The HRST assigns total points to each individual, and the total points determine the associated degree of health risk, ranging from the lowest risk (Level 1) to the highest risk (Level 6). This process helps detect health concerns and risks early, enabling intervention before they become destabilizing.

In addition, the course prepares clinicians to describe situations, initiate early intervention, and address the development and overall health of people with IDD and other disabilities across all ages, thereby improving their lives and outcomes.

Developed by Dr. Craig Escudé, a physician specializing in IDD healthcare, this six-module course helps healthcare professionals:

• Improve diagnostic accuracy and reduce preventable complications
• Deliver more person-centered, equitable care
• Earn continuing medical education (CME) credits
• Now, fulfill QI and MOC requirements through the ABMS Portfolio Program

Whether you’re a physician, nurse, or healthcare educator, the CIDDH program is a powerful step toward advancing health equity for people with IDD.

 

Additional Resources

• For an overview of the Curriculum in IDD Healthcare course, download the CIDDH brochure
• To learn more about the HRST, download the HRST brochure.
• To read the original press release, view the New Quality Improvement Program Provides Enhanced Education in the Care of Patients with Disabilities press post.

Explore the course and register today: Curriculum in IDD Healthcare

Tara Wants a Boyfriend: Supporting Choice, Independence, and Safe Relationships for People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

 

For people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), the desire for connection, intimacy, and meaningful relationships is no different than it is for anyone else. Yet for decades, systems of support have treated these desires as risks to be controlled rather than human needs to be supported. In the IDD Perspectives webinar Tara Wants a Boyfriend: Strategies for Supporting Choice, Independence, and Safe Relationships, Dr. Craig Escudé and Johnathon Crumley challenged that mindset and offered a practical, person-centered framework for supporting autonomy without compromising health and safety.

This session explored why supporting relationships for people with IDD can feel uncomfortable for providers, and why that discomfort often says more about systems and assumptions than about the person themselves.

 

Why Supporting Relationships Still Feels So Hard

 

Johnathon Crumley began by asking a fundamental question: How did we get here? Why does the field still struggle to support people with IDD in having the same choices, dignity, and opportunities that others take for granted?

To answer that, he traced today’s challenges back to the era of institutionalization. While many people with IDD now live in community settings, the philosophy of institutional care often follows them out the door. Rigid routines, collective decision-making, and a focus on keeping people “safe” rather than fulfilled continue to shape how services are delivered. Simply put, the buildings changed, but the mindset often remained the same.

This lingering institutional mindset shows up most clearly when people with IDD express desires that feel risky to supporters, like dating, intimacy, or sexual relationships. When disability is all we see, Crumley explained, almost any restriction can be justified and labeled as “support,” even when it limits a person’s quality of life.

 

“The Problem to Fix Is Not the Person—It’s Us”

 

One of the most powerful moments of the webinar came when Crumley stated plainly: “The real problem to fix is not the person or their diagnosis. It’s us.” For too long, behaviors, diagnoses, or perceived limitations have been treated as the issue to solve, rather than examining the beliefs and biases that shape support decisions.

This reframing is uncomfortable, but necessary. When supporters assume they know what is “best,” autonomy is often sacrificed in the name of protection. The result is a system that prioritizes liability reduction over lived experience and safety over self-determination.

 

A Practical Framework for Balancing Choice and Safety

 

Rather than stopping at philosophy, the webinar offered a clear, repeatable framework for supporting choice while managing risk. This approach is grounded in person-centered thinking and begins with discovery – not paperwork or assessments.

The first step is truly understanding what is important to the person, not just what is important for them. This requires going beyond surface-level questions and exploring why something matters. Knowing that someone wants a relationship is important; understanding why connection, intimacy, or companionship matters to them is transformative.

Once what matters is clear, teams can then identify legitimate risks and barriers. Importantly, this step is not about finding reasons to say no. It is about being honest and realistic while remaining optimistic, asking not “Why can’t this work?” but “How could this work safely?”

Education follows naturally. Just as anyone educates themselves before pursuing something meaningful, people with IDD deserve access to information about consent, boundaries, safety, emotional readiness, and healthy relationships. Education is not a gatekeeper; it is an enabler of autonomy.

 

Negotiating Support—With the Person, Not Around Them

 

One of the most critical—and often overlooked—steps in the framework is negotiating support. Rather than planning for the person or despite the person, supporters work with them to determine how support will look. The person maintains control over the “who, what, when, where, and why,” while supporters collaborate on the “how.” Support staff and staff members play a key role in this process, helping to negotiate support and ensure safety while respecting the individual’s preferences.

This negotiation honors the dignity of risk while acknowledging legitimate safety concerns. It also shifts the role of staff from gatekeepers to partners—an essential change for person-centered practice to succeed. Striking a balance between safety and autonomy is crucial, as supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities means empowering them to make their own choices while providing appropriate guidance and support.

 

Tara’s Story: What This Looks Like in Real Life

 

To bring the framework to life, Crumley shared the case example of Tara, a 25-year-old woman living in a group home who wants a boyfriend. Tara formed a connection with Steve, someone she met in the community, and wants to invite him over for a date. Not a supervised social event, but a real date, with privacy and choice.

Through discovery, the team learns that Tara is not ready for sexual intimacy but does want to explore a relationship. The importance of emotional closeness and fulfilling relationships is recognized, as Tara values her friends and the companionship of a romantic partner. From there, risks are identified honestly, including knowledge gaps about dating and consent. The team also addresses feelings, physical intimacy, sexual health, and the risks of sexual abuse as part of the planning process. Education is provided, and supports are negotiated collaboratively. Tara agrees to safety strategies such as staff check-ins and a signal to request help to protect her without undermining her autonomy.

Every aspect of the plan is thoroughly documented, ensuring transparency, accountability, and continuity. After the date, the team reflects with Tara, evaluates what worked and what didn’t, and adjusts supports accordingly. This process continues over time, allowing learning to build rather than starting from scratch with each new experience.

 

Why This Matters

 

At its core, this webinar was not just about dating or relationships; it was about re-humanizing people with IDD. Crumley emphasized that desires for intimacy, connection, and contribution are basic human experiences—not privileges reserved for those without disabilities.

When systems deny these experiences outright, they reinforce the very institutional mindset the field is working to dismantle. Supporting choice does not mean abandoning safety. It means undertaking the more challenging work of thoughtful planning, honest education, and collaborative support, while promoting positive control and replacing risk with proactive strategies that empower adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives.

 

Moving Forward

 

Supporting people with IDD in relationships requires courage, humility, and skill. It requires a willingness to challenge long-held assumptions and to see risk not as something to eliminate, but as something to manage thoughtfully. As Dr. Escudé and Crumley demonstrated, when person-centered thinking guides practice, it is possible to support independence, dignity, and safety—without sacrificing any of them.

For organizations and supporters ready to move beyond compliance toward true person-centered practice, this conversation is not optional. It is essential.

 

Additional Resources:

–          Watch the full webinar here

–         Learn more about our free IDD Perspectives webinar series here

–          Explore our person-centered thinking training options: download our free brochure

Case Study: Discovery Living Strengthens Staff Preparedness with Fatal Five Fundamentals Training

 

Executive Summary

 

After implementing IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals training program, Discovery Living Inc., an Iowa provider supporting 150 people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), achieved significant improvements in health outcomes, staff preparedness, and operational efficiency.

A one-year outcome analysis found a 37% reduction in emergency department and urgent care visits, decreasing from 254 visits in 2024 to 159 in 2025. This reduction translated into estimated annual medical cost savings of $274,410 and staffing overtime savings of $15,237. In addition, 97% of staff reported feeling better prepared to recognize preventable health risks, while 85% were able to apply their training immediately in daily practice.

These results demonstrate how proactive health surveillance training can reduce avoidable medical crises, strengthen early intervention, improve the quality of care, and support long-term financial sustainability for organizations that support people with IDD.

 

Background

 

Supporting people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) requires consistent vigilance, strong clinical awareness, and systems that empower staff to recognize risk early.

Discovery Living Inc. is committed to helping people with IDD live healthy, meaningful lives through proactive, person-centered support. To strengthen staff capacity and reduce preventable medical crises, the organization pursued training focused on the “Fatal Five” — constipation, aspiration, dehydration, seizures, and sepsis.

These five conditions are the leading preventable causes of illness and premature death among people with IDD. In fact, people with IDD are more than twice as likely to die prematurely as the general population (The Center for Inclusive Health).

By investing in targeted health surveillance education, Discovery Living aimed to move beyond reactive crisis response and toward a culture of early intervention, shared responsibility, and long-term wellness.

 

Funding the Initiative

 

This project was made possible by a $5,000 mini-grant awarded by Iowa’s University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD). The UCEDD offered up to ten mini-grants to community agencies, healthcare organizations, community-based services, and centers to promote high-quality healthcare for people with IDD.

Discovery Living’s successful application focused on educating its employees through IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn program. The grant enabled all staff to access the training via IntellectAbility’s Electronic Learning Platform (eLP). The course comprises seven individual modules, along with associated resources and downloadable materials designed specifically for frontline supporters.

 

Implementation of Fatal Five Training

 

To build awareness, Discovery Living introduced the Fatal Five concepts during an all-agency training on March 27, 2024, highlighting why this training would be central to the organization’s mission moving forward. The session began with an overview of the Fatal Five presented by Dr. Craig Escudé. Staff were encouraged to actively participate, ask questions, and were informed of the expectation to complete the eLearning course.

Following the training, staff completed the Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn course, which:

• Identifies the top five preventable causes of death in people with IDD

• Guides learners through real-world scenarios for spotting and responding to changes in health status

• Incorporates visual aids, interactive questions, and downloadable reference materials

• Emphasizes practical skills that staff can apply immediately in their daily work

 

What the Data Shows: Measurable Impact of Fatal Five Training

 

A one-year outcome analysis at Discovery Living found that Fatal Five Fundamentals training led to significant improvements in both health outcomes and operational efficiency. The training helped staff work proactively to mitigate health risks, resulting in improved outcomes for people with IDD.

After implementing the training, the organization experienced a 37% reduction in combined emergency department and urgent care visits, from 254 in 2024 to 159 in 2025. Even after excluding individuals with the highest medical utilization, visits still declined by 33%, demonstrating that the improvements were not driven by chance or population changes.

This reduction in emergency care translated into meaningful cost savings. Based on national healthcare estimates and IDD-specific utilization data, Discovery Living achieved:

• $255,210 in reduced emergency department costs
• $19,200 in urgent care savings
• $274,410 in total estimated annual medical savings

In addition, fewer emergency visits resulted in staffing efficiencies. The study estimated approximately $15,237 in annual overtime savings, along with indirect savings related to transportation, scheduling, documentation, and follow-up care. These efforts are aimed at continually improving health and wellness for the people served.

 

Staff Confidence and Early Intervention

 

Survey data from 60 staff members revealed that the training strengthened frontline clinical awareness and decision-making. The training also increased staff understanding of health risks and the importance of making decisions based on early warning signs.

After completing the course:

• 97% felt better prepared to recognize Fatal Five conditions
• 92% felt better prepared to prevent them
• 85% could apply what they learned immediately
• 83% would recommend the training
• The overall experience was rated 4.15 out of 5 stars

Staff reported increased communication with supervisors, guardians, and healthcare providers, often leading to earlier evaluations and treatment.

As one participant shared:

“Learners felt empowered to observe, make informed decisions, and act when necessary.”

The training also emphasized positive control, empowering staff to support autonomy and safety.

These changes reflect a shift from reactive crisis management to proactive health monitoring and early intervention.

 

Cultural and Practice Transformation

 

Beyond measurable outcomes, Discovery Living Inc. observed a cultural shift across the organization. Staff began discussing health concerns more openly and collaboratively, leading to earlier intervention and improved support coordination.

This approach reflects a move from traditional risk management to “replacing risk” with proactive health and wellness strategies. By focusing on prevention and person-centered support, staff are helping improve stability, engagement, and quality of life for the people they support. The organization is also promoting positive control by implementing person-centered approaches that empower people and preserve their autonomy.

Why These Results Matter for Providers

For organizations supporting people with IDD, emergency department visits carry significant clinical, operational, and emotional consequences. Each visit disrupts staffing, strains budgets, and reduces continuity of care.

This case study demonstrates that targeted health surveillance training can:

• Reduce avoidable medical emergencies
• Improve staff confidence and consistency
• Lower healthcare and staffing costs
• Strengthen collaboration with medical providers
• Improve the quality of life for people with IDD

Rather than relying on crisis response, trained teams are better equipped to identify early warning signs and intervene before emergencies occur.

About IntellectAbility’s Academy Courses

IntellectAbility’s Academy offers comprehensive healthcare and person-centered support training for providers serving people with IDD. Courses support clinical and non-clinical staff and are designed to complement organizational policies and quality initiatives.

Many courses are NADSP-accredited and offer CME or CEU credits, providing accessible, high-quality education that empowers learners to take informed action.

Each eLearn course includes:

• Illustrations
• Knowledge checks
• Real-world scenarios
• Retention-focused learning tools

 

Conclusion

 

Through UCEDD grant support and IntellectAbility’s Fatal Five Fundamentals training, Discovery Living significantly improved staff awareness, confidence, and collaboration around critical health concerns.

By strengthening early detection, communication, and preventive healthcare, the organization created a safer, more responsive environment for people with IDD. When paired with validated health risk screening tools such as the Health Risk Screening Tool (HRST®), these efforts further support early intervention and targeted support planning.

This case study demonstrates how evidence-based training can directly improve outcomes, reduce costs, and strengthen support systems for people with IDD.

 

Additional Resources:

• Visit our training page to explore how Fatal Five Fundamentals can benefit your organization.
• Download our free brochure to learn more about IntellectAbility’s Academy courses.
• Download the IntellectAbility and Discovery Living Inc. case study and infographic to learn more about the impact of the Fatal Five Fundamentals eLearn.