MDDC Survey - Experiences with Self-Direction

In 2025, the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council began collecting data on the Self-Direction program offered by the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS.) These survey findings will be used to educate and inform decision makers on the importance of self-direction, how Commonwealth residents use the program, and what can be improved.

About the Survey

The National Core Indicators® - Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (NCI®-IDD) provides a look into the nation's public developmental disabilities agencies to measure their success and suggest areas of improvement. The 2025 NCI®-IDD public study was not able to collect enough responses regarding Massachusetts residents who use DDS Self-Direction. Because of this lack of important data, the MDDC made the decision to conduct a statewide survey to learn more about the program. The survey was launched in October 2025 following collaboration with DDS. 

Survey Results

The MDDC presented survey findings to our community on January 29th, 2026. The recording and slides used during the presentation are available below.

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Self-Direction Experiences: Insights from the MDDC's Statewide Survey

The MDDC has a resource available that lists findings from our survey, showcases data and highlights quotes from survey participants.