A DSP’s Role in Advocacy and Policy - Part 1

Joseph Macbeth: Joseph Macbeth, President and CEO of the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP), boasts over 40 years of experience in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field. He began his career as a direct support professional and has become a prominent leader in workforce advocacy. Joe has significantly contributed to the advancement of direct support initiatives, particularly in New York and has been pivotal in establishing NADSP as a national movement representing over 60,000 professionals. Among his notable achievements are co-authoring a presidential report on the direct support workforce crisis and developing the E-badge Academy. Additionally, he serves on various national boards and committees, including a presidential appointment to the President’s Committee for People with Intellectual Disabilities (PCPID).

Episode Summary:

In this 2-part episode of DSP Talk, host Ashley Blaise engages in a meaningful conversation with Joseph Macbeth, an influential figure in the field of direct support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Joe shares insights from his extensive experience advocating for direct support professionals (DSPs), discussing the urgent need for policy changes that affect DSPs and their ability to provide essential services. He emphasizes the potential impact of impending Medicaid cuts and the importance of DSP-led advocacy to confront these challenges.

In an exploration filled with crucial insights, Joe Macbeth delves into significant policy issues facing DSPs today, highlighting the often invisible and undervalued status of these professionals. He elaborates on the profound effects of potential Medicaid cuts, advocating for direct support professionals to mobilize and advocate on their own behalf. Throughout the discussion, Joe underscores the vital role of DSPs in achieving quality care and the pressing need for proper recognition within the profession. The conversation further explores the necessity for systemic support, training, and direct involvement of DSPs in policy advocacy, emphasizing the role of personal stories in influencing legislative change.

Key Takeaways:

• Direct support professionals face potential setbacks due to proposed Medicaid cuts, which could impact both their livelihoods, and the quality of care provided.
• Joe Macbeth encourages DSPs to take charge and advocate for themselves, drawing a parallel to successful social justice movements led from within.
• Recognition and support for DSPs extend beyond monetary compensation to include career development, decision-making power, and strategic involvement in organizational processes.
• There is a critical need for a unique occupational classification for DSPs to ensure accurate workforce data, essential for informed policy decisions.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I see this as a social justice type of issue. People who support people with all types of disabilities need to be valued and respected as a true professional” – Joe Macbeth

2. "Honoring is a practice, not a performance." – Ashley Blaise

3. "Medicaid is not an entitlement. Medicaid feeds back into community and people with disabilities…contribute greatly to our communities." – Joe Macbeth

4. "Nobody's a good direct support professional on day one. It takes time to be a good direct support professional."– Joe Macbeth

Resources:

• National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP)
• Advocacy Center
• Disability Policy Forum

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