Tennessee DIDD Achieves Person Centered Excellence Network Re-Accreditation

According to a recent news release, the Tennessee Department of Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (DIDD) achieved reaccreditation for Person-Centered Excellence Network Accreditation from The Council on Quality and Leadership (CQL).

“The reaccreditation extends through 2023 and recognizes the strides made over the past four years to support people receiving DIDD services to exercise their rights, make choices, and live the lives they envision for themselves. CQL is a national leader in working with human service organizations to define measure and improve the quality of life for people receiving supports and services.”

“The accreditation process with CQL has placed the entire DIDD network’s focus on the areas that truly matter to people with disabilities,” DIDD Commissioner Debra K. Payne said.  “The heart of the process is encouraging people with disabilities to advocate for themselves to ensure services are about what the person wants to achieve, not what others think they need.”

 “Accreditation focuses on how DIDD embraces and implements numerous best practices, person-centered approaches and proprietary tools, including the Basic Assurances.  In the first two years alone, from 2014 to 2016, data collected shows DIDD made significant progress, with the largest gains coming in recognizing emerging support networks, developing plans that led to person-centered services, and providing meaningful work and/or activity choices for persons supported.”

  “This accreditation demonstrates a deep commitment to person-centered practices by DIDD, provider organizations, people receiving services, families, and other stakeholders across Tennessee,” says Mary Kay Rizzolo, CQL President and Chief Executive Officer. “We’re extremely proud to partner with them on their journey, and commend them for this tremendous accomplishment.”