KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

What is HCBS?

HCBS stands for Home and Community-Based Services. It means you receive support to live your life in your community, not in a facility or program setting.

HCBS is part of Medicaid, a federal program that funds services and supports for people with disabilities and others who need long-term support across the nation.

It exists to ensure people with disabilities have the same rights, choices, and opportunities as anyone else to live, work, and be part of their communities.

Federal rules require that these services support choice, independence, and full participation in community life.

HCBS is about supporting you to:

  • Live where you choose

  • Spend your time how you want

  • Be part of your community

  • Move toward your goals

    Support should fit your life, not the other way around.‍ ‍

Make Choices

  • You decide how you spend your day

  • You choose your goals and activities

  • You can say yes or no

NEED HELP?

YOUR RIGHTS

When you receive services, you have important rights.

Be Part of Your Community

  • You can go where you want in your community

  • You can build relationships and connections

  • You can work, volunteer, or take classes

Be Treated with Respect

  • You should be spoken to with respect

  • Your culture, identity, and preferences matter

  • You should feel safe and supported

WHAT THIS MEANS

You are in charge of your life.

Support staff are there to:

  • Listen and follow your lead

  • Support your goals

  • Help you build independence, connection, and belonging

    They are not there to control your choices.

If you have a concern about your services and want support, you can reach out to us directly or ask your team for help.

Privacy

  • Your personal information is protected

  • You can have private conversations

  • You can make personal decisions

ADVOCACY SUPPORT

You can also contact:

  • Office of Clients' Rights Advocacy

  • Disability Rights California

  • Stiles Disability Advocates

Speak Up

  • You can share concerns about your services

  • You can ask for changes

  • You can request a meeting

You will not be treated differently for speaking up.

No Unnecessary Limits

  • There should not be rules that limit your freedom without a clear and documented reason

  • Any limits should be discussed, agreed on, and included in your planning process

IF SOMETHING DOES NOT FEEL RIGHT

It is okay to say something.

You can:

  • Talk to someone you trust

  • Ask for a meeting

  • Contact your Service Coordinator at San Andreas Regional Center

  • Get support from an advocate

    You do not have to figure this out on your own.

STILES DISABILITY ADVOCATES


Beth Stiles, Founder and Facilitator
831-291-1478
[email protected]