Is Your Child Eligible for OPWDD Services and Supports?
January 17, 2012New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (NYS OPWDD) coordinates and provides services for people with developmental disabilities and their families. OPWDD also conducts research and prevention of developmental disabilities.
OPWDD provides access to services through a regional system dividing the state into 13 sections that are overseen by Developmental Disabilities Services Offices called DDSOs.
Supports and services available include: family support, service coordination, respite, housing, supported employment, recreation, skills development, training, habilitative services, nursing and psychiatric services.
How Eligibility is Determined
OPWDD uses Section 1.03(22) of the NYS Mental Hygiene Law as the legal basis for eligibility. Please go to www.opwdd.ny.gov for specific information.
The Eligibility Determination Process
To get started: In the Finger Lakes region, you may contact The Advocacy Center at 585-546-1700 to assist you through the process. You may also contact the Finger Lakes DDSO or another NYS approved non-profit provider for assistance.
You will be asked to collect medical, psychological and social evaluations. All evaluations must be current. Documentation is usually available from schools, health care providers, clinics, etc.
The Finger Lakes DDSO uses a Three Step Eligibility Review Process to determine final eligibility. OPWDD typically makes eligibility determinations within 90 days. If denied, you can appeal.
Please visit www.opwdd.ny.gov for more information. Please contact us at 585-546-1700 with additional questions.
