DDA Information

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) in Maryland is a part of the Maryland Department of Health and is responsible for coordinating services and support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Services may include residential support, day programs, employment services, family support services, etc. The goal is to enhance the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities. Additionally, DDA works with different community providers to offer programs that encourage community participation and independence.

• Developmentally Disabled (DD) eligible – Eligibility for the full range of DDA services – not entitlement

  • A severe, chronic disability attributed to a physical or mental impairment, but not just mental illness, or a combination of mental and physical impairments

  • Has manifested before age 22

  • Is likely to continue indefinitely 

  • Results in the inability to live independently without external support or continuing and regular assistance

  • Requires the support of a team to help with services and treatment

• Supports Only (SO) eligible – eligible for support services only 

  • A severe, chronic disability attributed to a physical or mental impairment, but not just mental illness, or a combination of mental and physical impairments

  • Is likely to continue indefinitely

• DDA is no longer providing CCS services to individuals that are SO 

  • Cannot apply for the waiver with SO level eligibility 

  • If an individual is SO, they can contact DDA directly about a redetermination. DDA will be looking for supporting information on the diagnosis that clearly indicates a Developmental Disability prior to age 22

• Future Need – on the registry – no CCS services

• Current Request – services are needed within 3 years – most TYs

• Crisis Prevention – Crisis present - services needed within 1 year

  • to qualify for this priority category, the applicant shall have been determined by the DDA to have an urgent need for services; is at substantial risk for meeting one or more of the crisis resolution criteria within 1 year, or have a caregiver who is 65 years old or older

• Crisis Resolution – significant crisis present – services needed within 90 days 

  • homeless or will be homeless within 30 days;

  • victims of abuse or neglect;

  • at serious risk of causing physical harm to others; 

  • living with a caregiver who is unable to provide adequate care due to the caregiver's impaired health

• In order for an individual to receive DDA funding, they must be:

  • DD eligible

  • Have the appropriate priority category

    • Current Request  category or higher  for TY Funding or special selections such as Family Support Waiver

    • Crisis  categories for other types of funding

  • Have identified funding (Transitioning Youth, WLEF, Crisis)

  • Be eligible for one of DDA’s Maryland Home and Community Based Waivers

Community Pathways Waiver

• Children and adults

• Includes Meaningful Day, Residential and Support Services

Community Supports Waiver

• Children and adults

• Meaningful Day and Support Services

• Service cap of $25,000 annually

Family Supports Waiver

• Children birth to 21

• Various Support Services for the individual and family

• Service Cap of $12,000 annually 

*Note: exceptions to these requirements have been made in situations where an individual is institutionalized or has forensic involvement.  

• Late DDA applications

• Late referrals to CCS Providers

• Delayed follow-through

• Availability and responsiveness of providers in Howard County 

• Length of timeframe for waiver application processing

• Individuals not applying for Medical Assistance and SSI at age 18