Number of people receiving DDS services exceeds number of people on DDS waitlist for first time since 2009
OKLAHOMA CITY (Dec. 20, 2021) — Today, Oklahoma Human Services (OKDHS) announced the number of people receiving Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) exceeds the number of people on the DDS waitlist for the first time since 2009.
There are 5,531 people receiving DDS services and 5,499 people on the DDS waitlist.
“We’ve reached a major milestone made possible by the hard work and collective efforts of DDS staff, partners and the Oklahoma Legislature to serve Oklahomans with developmental disabilities,” said Secretary of Human Services Justin Brown. “While we will not rest until every Oklahoman in need has access to services, we’re proud to celebrate progress not seen in over a decade.”
Samantha Galloway, OKDHS Deputy Director and Chief of Staff and Operations, credits the legislature and commitment from the team she leads.
“The Oklahoma Legislature has made a commitment to reduce and eliminate the wait list. Without their support, we would not have elimination of the wait list as an achievable goal,” she stated. “Together with common goals led by OKDHS Director Brown and our entire OKDHS and DDS team, I’m confident we are on track to eliminate the wait list.”
OKDHS has contracted with Liberty of Oklahoma to conduct a comprehensive review of the unique needs of each person on the DDS waitlist. The review will help OKDHS determine service gaps and the funding required to end the waitlist.
Families remaining on the waitlist can schedule an appointment with Liberty of Oklahoma by calling 405-500-1866.
