What is a Support Broker?
A support broker, such as Samantha Harrison, is a professional who guides individuals with disabilities—and their families—towards services, resources, and care management. The goal of a Support Broker is to support people in leading fulfilling lives in the home and community of their choosing.
Can a Support Broker help me?
Support brokers assist individuals with special needs, physical or intellectual disabilities, and their caregivers, including parents, guardians, and siblings. Samantha also supports those with memory loss, chronic or terminal illnesses, traumatic brain injuries, age-related disabilities, and other conditions requiring caregiving.
Why haven't I heard of Support Brokers before?
Support brokers are essential part self-direction, a model that allows individuals to personally select their care providers and have more control over their care services.
Support Brokers are available in self-direction programs across the nation. However, in areas like Kentucky, Indiana, and Ohio, the role of support brokers is relatively new and/or not widely recognized, resulting in a shortage of available professionals. This shortfall impacts the education and support people need to successfuly self-direct.
Raising awareness about the value of support brokers and increasing their numbers are critical steps towards ensuring that more individuals can access personalized care through self-direction.
Do I need a Support Broker if I have a Case Manager?
If you already have a case manager, you might wonder if a support broker is necessary.
Although it's not required, having a support broker, such as Samantha, can provide added value. A support broker delivers more in-depth guidance and mentorship beyond what a case manager typically offers.
Including help with finding, hiring, and managing caregivers, ensuring you're getting the most out of your benefits, and helping you tap into additional resources.
Essentially, a support broker can enhance your self-direction experience, offering personalized support that complements the work of your case manager.