What happens after an individual is found OPWDD eligible?

After being found eligible for OPWDD, you’ll move towards the next step – applying for approval for waiver services.

‍Note: Children under age 8 are only granted provisional (temporary) eligibility for OPWDD and must reapply at age 8 for permanent eligibility.

After receiving OPWDD eligibility, you’ll be assigned a support person to assist with next steps.  If the individual applying for services already has Medicaid, they’ll be assigned a care manager by a Care Coordination Organization (CCO), if they haven’t connected with one yet. If they don’t have Medicaid, they’ll be assigned a waiver specialist.

Next, there are some technical steps that will need to be completed, most of which will be managed by your care coordinator or waiver specialist:

• You’ll be offered FSS services – a limited set of services you can opt-in for, including help with advocacy, after-school programs, respite, family counseling, transportation, and more. Exact supports vary from region to region, and our intake team can clarify what you might be able to receive.  
• The OPWDD will call you to conduct a CANS (Child and Adolescent Needs and Strengths) assessment, a standardized tool used to understand an individual’s needs, strengths, and functioning, so services can be planned appropriately. The assessment will take place over the phone.
• Your support team will create a life plan – a document outlining personal strengths and abilities, as well as goals, based on previous assessments. It also outlines all OPWDD services and what they offer, addresses health and risk management, and includes caregiver and family support. The life plan turns identified needs into concrete support and clear goals.

Now, you’re ready to apply for the specific services that will best serve you. Your care manager will request the services identified to be a good fit. As soon as approval is received, you can begin receiving services!