Inquiring & Applying for Intellectual Disability & Autism Services

     I often get asked how someone applies and receives disability services. The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) is the entity within the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services (DHS) that is responsible for the oversight of the intellectual disabilities and developmental services in Pennsylvania. It is the role of the local county offices of intellectual disabilities to verify eligibility for intellectual disability services. Each of the 67 counties has an office, some smaller counties combine service areas. They are called joinder counties these include Adams/ York, Armstrong/ India, Bedford/ Somerset etc.

     To be eligible for intellectual services through the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) requires a diagnosis of an intellectual disability based on the results of standardized testing. One must also be registered with their local county of intellectual disabilities. When applying for services this can be by person who will be receiving services their family or trusted person assisting them.
 
     If someone is not registered through their county, they can contact their local office for more information. I will include the link at the bottom of this post. Once a person expresses interest in applying, they will be provided with information to gather and present with their application to establish eligibility. These documents may include medical, psychological and school records. Once eligibility is determined the next step is to obtain additional information birth certificate, social security card, income info which may include Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability (SSD) or any other applicable income.

     The eligibility process is straight forward, however, the actual process to get a waiver (depending on the waiver), can be lengthy depending on circumstances. There are additional factors to consider, such as availability of funding, urgency, and level of car to name a few. When speaking with individuals and families, I prepare them to utilize their natural supports as best they can until paid supports are possible. After application is made, if there are any concerns on outcome of the application or eligibility review, there is due process.
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     It is advised that anyone looking for services register with the county as soon as possible. Individuals can be registered as early as age 14. This is important for school aged children who would otherwise benefit from services now and in the future. This phase is considered the planning phase and preparation for the Individual Support Plans (ISP) and/ or Individualized Education Program (IEP). 
 
     Once registered, an individual is assigned a support coordinator (they are like case/ care managers). There may be one or several supports coordination units operating within a county. An individual has a choice. The supports coordinator is to assist an individual with locating, coordinating and planning services.
 
     This is a condensed, yet simple explanation to how to obtain services. If you or a loved one is seeking services and would like additional information, please feel free to contact me. OR, if you are already a provider or looking to become a licensed provider, contact me for a consultation at [email protected].


Pennsylvania County Contact Information 
www.hcsis.state.pa.us/hcsis-ssd/ServicesSupportDirectory/CountyContacts