How does an individual qualify for the HCBS DD Waiver?
According to the Developmental Disabilities Reform Act (PDF), "Developmental Disability" is defined: (1) Mental Retardation (substantial limitations in present functioning that is manifested during the period from birth to age 18 years and is characterized by significantly subaverage intellectual functioning existing concurrently with deficits in adaptive behavior including related limitations in two or more of the following applicable adaptive skill areas: Communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self-direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure and work);

or

(2) a severe, chronic disability, which:

(A) Is attributable to a mental or physical impairment, or multiple sensory impairments, a combination of mental and physical impairments, physical and sensory impairments, mental and sensory impairments or a condition which has received a dual diagnosis of mental retardation and mental illness;

(B) is manifest before 22 years of age;

(C) is likely to continue indefinitely;

(D) results, in the case of a person five years of age or older, in a substantial limitation in three or more of the following areas of major life functioning: Self-care, receptive and expressive language development and use, learning and adapting, mobility, self-direction, capacity for independent living and economic self-sufficiency;

(E) reflects a need for a combination and sequence of special interdisciplinary or generic care, treatment, specialized communications techniques or other services which are lifelong, or extended in duration and are individually planned and coordinated; and

(F) does not include individuals who are solely and severely emotionally disturbed or seriously or persistently mentally ill or have disabilities solely as a result of the infirmities of aging.

How does an individual apply for the HCBS MRDD Waiver?
The "single point of entry" into the HCBS Developmental Disabilities Waiver in Kansas is your local Community Developmental Disabilities Organization (CDDO). They will determine eligibility and will work with the person and/or their family to access services from a variety of Community Service Providers in your area.

For more in depth information on the DD Waiver click here.