West Virginia I/DD waiver waitlist tops 1,000

West Virginia’s Intellectual and/or Developmental Disability (I/DD) Waiver program waitlist has increased to more than 1,000 people, according to recent reporting. The growth underscores continued pressure on Medicaid waiver capacity and access, with children representing the largest share of those waiting.

As of October 2025, approximately 1,031 individuals are on the I/DD Waiver waitlist in West Virginia. Nearly 789 of those waiting are under age 18, highlighting the extent to which the backlog affects children and families seeking services through the waiver. Earlier in the year, only about 139 waiver slots were available. With demand far exceeding available slots, many eligible individuals remain in line for access to supports that are delivered through the waiver program.

Extended waits can leave families without key services. Delays in accessing waiver supports can mean going without essential therapies, respite care, and crisis supports. Advocates also warn that prolonged wait times may increase the risk that individuals are pushed into more restrictive or institutional settings. The concern reflects how gaps in community-based support can affect placement and service options over time when waiver access is delayed.

West Virginia’s waitlist pressures align with a broader national trend. Medicaid Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers often rely on enrollment caps to manage costs, which can contribute to waitlists when demand rises. Workforce shortages further limit provider capacity, adding another constraint even when individuals qualify for services. In West Virginia, recent rate increases and interim support measures have been implemented, but demand continues to exceed available resources.