Projects

Evaluating the California Department of Developmental Services’ Technology Pilot Program

2024 – 2026
Health Health Information Technology and Analytics Long-Term Services and Supports State Health Policy Disability Health and Access to Care State and Local Research and Evaluation Evaluation Design Surveys and Data Collection

Project Overview

Objective

To evaluate the California Department of Developmental Services' (CA DDS) Technology Pilot program, which explores the use of assistive technology to provide services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Project Motivation

This evaluation will assess whether the Technology Pilot's services can enhance independence, quality of life, and access to services, while supporting participants' individual goals and reducing in-person supports needs.

Partners in Progress

  • Alta County Regional Center
  • On My Own Independent Living Services (OMO)
  • Strategies to Empower People (STEP)
  • East Bay Innovations (EBI)

Prepared For

California Department of Developmental Services

The Technology Pilot program aims to boost independence and service access for individuals with developmental disabilities. Technology-based services could reduce reliance on in-person support, enhancing quality of life and inclusion.

The CA DDS, in partnership with the Alta County Regional Center, On My Own Independent Living Services, Strategies to Empower People, and East Bay Innovations are launching a pilot program to support individuals with developmental disabilities through assistive technology. Mathematica is evaluating this pilot by answering the following questions: 

  • Does the program help expand workforce capacity?
  • Does the program help people living independently feel more autonomy, privacy, and independence, but still supported and safe?
  • Does the program offer more diversified service offerings (for example, American sign language or bilingual services)?
  • Does the program generate cost savings relative to to in-person service delivery?

In order to inform these questions, Mathematica is conducting qualitative interviews and a participant survey. The results of these activities will be submitted to the California Legislature upon conclusion of the evaluation.

Related Staff

Denise Hoffman

Denise Hoffman

Principal Researcher

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Marlena Luhr

Marlena Luhr

Researcher

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