Which diagnosis qualifies someone for OPWDD services?

To apply for OPWDD (Office of People with Developmental Disabilities) services, an individual must first receive OPWDD eligibility – an official determination of developmental disability made by OPWDD.

To qualify for this, the individual must have a diagnosed developmental disability, which  may include:

• An intellectual disability (IQ of approximately 70 or below)
• Autism
• A neurological condition that affects the central nervous system, such as:
  
  • Cerebral palsy
  • Epilepsy
  • Familial dysautonomia
  • Muscular dystrophy
  • Prader-Willi syndrome
  • Spina bifida
  • Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
• Other conditions, genetic or otherwise, that impair intellectual or adaptive functioning

In addition to a diagnosis, the individual must demonstrate a “substantial handicap,” meaning significant limitations in daily functioning due to the disability. This is determined using standardized adaptive behavior assessments, which measure functional abilities such as communication, daily living skills, socialization, and motor skills.

Lastly, they must show proof of onset before age 22. This could include medical records, school evaluations, or developmental history. 

If all these criteria are met, an individual can proceed with applying for OPWDD eligibility and, once approved, apply for waiver services.