IDD Health Matters Ep 25: Empowering Change in IDD Services: Experts Alexandra Bonardi & Lindsay Dubois
In this enlightening episode of IDD Health Matters, Dr. Craig Escude engages in a thought-provoking conversation with two distinguished guests, Alexandra Bonardi and Lindsay Dubois. The episode delves into the intricacies of health, wellness, and health equity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Key Discussions: Lindsay
Dubois’ Mission: Lindsay emphasizes the importance of conducting meaningful research that directly benefits people with disabilities. She advocates for research that leads to actionable insights, aiming to transform systems for better accessibility and understanding.
Alexandra Bonardi’s Focus: Alexandra discusses her commitment to improving service systems for people with disabilities. She highlights her work on various projects, including the National Center on Advancing Person-Centered Practices and Systems, which aims to develop systems centered around the needs and preferences of individuals.
National Core Indicators (NCI): Alexandra explains the NCI, a program designed to collect data directly from individuals receiving support services. This initiative focuses on understanding their experiences and outcomes to enhance service systems.
Human Services Research Institute (HSRI): Both guests discuss their work with HSRI, an organization dedicated to improving human service systems. They explore how HSRI uses data to inform and improve support for people with disabilities, including those with behavioral health needs.
Personal Journeys: Alexandra and Lindsay share their personal paths that led them to their current roles, highlighting their experiences and motivations in working within the field of intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Advice and Insights: The episode concludes with each guest sharing three pieces of advice or insights they believe can positively impact the world for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Episode Highlights: The significance of person-centered approaches in service systems. The challenges and opportunities in disability research and service improvement. The importance of communication and understanding in providing effective support. Insights into the evolution of service systems and the role of data in driving change.
Dr. Escude wraps up the episode by expressing gratitude for the guests’ contributions and their ongoing efforts to enhance the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The episode not only sheds light on the complexities of the field but also inspires hope and action towards a more inclusive and understanding society.
