Colorado Disability Services — Getting Started

Disability Services in Colorado
While it is not perfect, Colorado has a strong support system for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). In reviewing other state’s regulations and billing rates, you can see that our state holds value in ensuring individuals with IDD have a high quality of life equal to anyone else living in the community.
Accessing those services, however, can be a large puzzle where families or individuals independently get stuck and turned in the wrong direction. We wanted to share easy to follow steps on how to get started to ensure that you or someone close to you is able to access the care they need.
Here is how it works:

• Individuals must have been diagnosed with a qualifying disability by 21 years old to easily qualify for long-term benefits. Early diagnoses are critical!
• For adults over 18, options include the Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver — otherwise known as the residential waiver and the Supported Living Service (SLS) waiver.
• The next step is connecting to your local Case Management Agency (CMA), previously known as Community Centered Board (CCB). You will be assigned a case manager who will assist in the eligibility and enrollment process.
• It is important to note that Colorado DOES have a waitlist for the DD waiver and it is important to enroll in that waitlist! It is never too early to ensure you or your loved one is on the list.

How are the SLS and DD Waivers Different?

• The DD Waiver, commonly referred to as the residential waiver, provides full 24-hour support from a Program Approved Service Agency (PASA), like Sample Supports. Within this model, Sample Supports offers Host Homes, Supported Independent Housing and a Family Caregiver model. In each of these, we are truly on call to meet whatever your needs may be 24–7.
• The SLS Waiver is a ‘scaled down’ version of residential supports that does not offer that on-call support. You can create a service package that may include Person Care, Homemaker, Respite and Mentorship. Each service has weekly or monthly limits on the amount of service that can be provided.
• Individuals on both waivers also have access to Day Program, Supported Employment and Behavior services. Each of these services has a limit on the number of hours provided. SLS waivers are based on an overall budget specific to that individual. So, you are able to put together a package of services that meets your needs!

How do you identify the level of support needed?
Currently, one of the most important tools within Colorado’s IDD system is the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) Assessment. We say this because the state is working to replace this system in the future. The SIS is an assessment that occurs before you begin services and is aimed to identify the level of support you need.
Accurate information is critical here.
As a family member or close connection to an individual seeking services, you have to step back and think ‘what would these various life skills look like if I were out of the picture?’

Your goal is to show the level of support the individual needs to be successful. The SIS assessment is then utilized to identify the reimbursement rates for providers AND the amount of services an individual qualified for. This is never an easy meeting and is extremely personal. It is important to discuss this with the individual receiving services beforehand to ensure they understand this may be uncomfortable but it is critical to be honest.

Sample Supports offers a step-by-step list of how to get enrolled in services — click here — or give us a call if you need support!