Glossary

The Stephen Beck, Jr. Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act (P.L. 113-295) added Section 529A to the federal tax code to enable eligible individuals with disabilities to save money in a tax-exempt account that may be used for qualified disability expenses while still keeping their eligibility for federal public benefits. (For more information: https://maryland529.com/MDABLE)

A tax-advantaged savings account designed for individuals with disabilities, allowing them to save and invest for qualified disability expenses without jeopardizing their eligibility for public benefits like SSI and Medicaid

Actions required to independently care for oneself such as bathing, dressing and grooming.

An adjunct condition, for medical treatment purposes, is a non-service connected condition that may be associated with and held to be aggravating an adjudicated service-connected condition. VA bills health insurance plans for treatment of an adjunct condition and as applicable, may charge a copay for treatment of the adjunct condition.

Adult Day Health Care is a therapeutic day care program, provides medical and rehabilitation services to disabled veterans in a congregate setting.

The department within the Local Health Department made up of nurses and social workers who complete assessments, such as the InterRAI.

The department within the local Department of Social Services that investigates allegations or abuse, neglect and exploitation of adults.

These programs support people with disabilities by advocating for their health and safety rights in the community and their personal lives.

Program that is a collaborative effort of the Administration on Aging and the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to serve as single points of entry into the long-term supports and services system for older adults and people with disabilities.

A VA compensation or pension benefit awarded to a veteran determined to be in need of the regular aid and attendance of another person to perform basic functions of everyday life. A veteran may qualify for aid and attendance benefits if he or she:

Allowable deductions are those payments made by veterans for certain non-reimbursed medical expenses, funeral and burial expenses and educational expenses. Veterans are able to exclude allowable deductions from their total gross household income in determining their eligibility for VA health care benefits.

A model of DDA’s residential support service, provided in a home of 3 or less people, with supervision.

A person applying for services but not yet found eligible.

This person makes medical decisions for you if you can’t make them and must be written in an Advance Directive. You can still make your own decisions, but they step in for healthcare matters when needed.

Area Agencies on Aging address the concerns of older Americans at the local level by identifying community and social service needs and assuring that social and nutritional supports are made available to older people in communities where they live. Find your local AAA here: http://www.aging.maryland.gov/Documents/AAADirectoryFeb2017.pdf

Property or resource of an individual which includes: cash, stocks and bonds, individual retirement accounts, income producing property, etc.

A facility that provides 24/7 supported living for older adults.

the formal approval or permission given to an individual to receive services or participate in specific programs or activities, based on eligibility and the necessary support in place.

The authorization given by the Maryland Department of Health to proceed with services in CFC, CPAS, CO and ICS programs; must be approved before any services can be started; several types that include advisory, authorization, denial, disenrollment and auto generated.

An authorized representative is an individual or organization acting responsibly on behalf of the individual in assisting with an application, service delivery decisions, renewal of eligibility, appeals, and other ongoing communications with the DDA

Behavior Plan- A plan designed to reinforce and shape behaviors and to provide an approved means to safely intervene when behaviors that are dangerous to self and/or others are exhibited. Strategies chosen are based upon each person’s needs, characteristics, and preferences from the results of a person-centered plan and comprehensive functional behavior assessment. Learn more here: https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/Behavioral%20Support%20Services.aspx

Bereavement counseling is assistance and support to people with emotional and psychological stress after the death of a loved one. Bereavement counseling includes a broad range of transition services, including outreach, counseling, and referral services to family members.

A financial plan that allocates funds for the services and supports an individual needs, ensuring resources are available to meet their care and goal requirements.

Adjusting an individual’s allocated funds for services and supports to reflect changes in their needs, goals, or circumstances.

Service that helps people identify their strengths and needs in order to coordinate and locate community specialized services. This may include helping people make plans regarding financial decisions, personal relationships, etc. The DDA uses a Targeted Case Management model.

Case management is a collaborative process that assesses, plans, implements, coordinates, monitors, and evaluates the options and services required to meet an individual health and human service needs. It is characterized by advocacy, communication, and resource management and promotes quality and cost-effective interventions and outcomes.

Agencies that provide resources, training, and other assistance to help people with disabilities be as independent as possible; some also provide Options Counseling.

Federal agency which administers Medicare, Medicaid, and the Children’s Health Insurance Program, including the Money Follows the Person demonstration grants.

A framework that uses tools and strategies to help individuals and families plan for a meaningful life by identifying goals, strengths, and needs, while ensuring the necessary supports for a fulfilling and independent life throughout all stages. This person-centered case management framework helps individuals supported develop and achieve a vision for a good life.

The department within the local Department of Social Services that investigates allegations of the abuse and neglect of children.

The empowerment and opportunity for people to make decisions about their own lives and to have their preferences respected, fostering independence and self-determination

Long-term care of individuals with long-standing, persistent diseases or conditions. Chronic care includes care specific to the problem, as well as other measures to encourage self-care, promote health, and prevent loss of function.

The process by which a person’s services or support from the DDA are ended

A compilation of all the regulations issued by the agencies of the State of Maryland. It provides definitions and the process for how service by state agencies, such as the DDA, are provided. The regulations are available on-line at http://www.dsd.state.md.us/

The official compilation of all administrative regulations issued by agencies of the state of Maryland available on-line at http://www.dsd.state.md.

A program created by Section 2401 of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act that allows states the option to offer certain community-based services as a state plan benefit to individuals who meet an institutional level of care. Learn more here: https://mmcp.health.maryland.gov/longtermcare/Pages/Community-First-Choice.aspx
Maryland’s CFC program offers personal assistance, supports planning, nurse monitoring, personal emergency response systems, transition services, and items that substitute for human assistance such as technology and environmental adaptations. Services are provided in the eligible individual’s home or community residence

This waiver became effective January 6, 2014 and serves adults aged 18 years and older. It provides assisted living, senior center plus, family training, behavioral consultation, and case management services.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) in Maryland runs three special Medicaid programs known as 1915 (c) Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. These programs include the Family Supports Waiver, Community Supports Waiver, and Community Pathways Waiver. https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/community%20pathways.aspx; https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/Medicaid_Waiver_Programs.aspx

Provides assistance with activities of daily living, nurse monitoring and supports planning to Medicaid recipients provided in the eligible individual’s home or community residence.

A tool used to assess whether living or service settings for individuals receiving Medicaid-funded home and community-based services (HCBS) comply with the Community Settings Rule, promoting community integration, autonomy, and inclusion.

A set federal regulations by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), ensures that individuals receiving Medicaid-funded home and community-based services (HCBS) live and receive services in settings that promote full community integration, autonomy, and access to the same opportunities as individuals without disabilities.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) in Maryland runs three special Medicaid programs known as 1915 (c) Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. These programs include the Family Supports Waiver, Community Supports Waiver, and Community Pathways Waiver.https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/Community_Supports_Waiver.aspx; https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/Medicaid_Waiver_Programs.aspx

A thorough review of an individual’s medical, social, and other needs and supports, conducted to determine eligibility for DDA services.

Formerly referred to as E&A (Eligibility and Access). The process by which an individual with a disability applies to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) for services. Eligibility is based on definitions in Maryland State Law, Health – General, Title 7, and Developmental Disability Law. These services are not an entitlement service. Individuals must apply and be determined eligible for DDA services.

Ensures that assessment and coordination of services are separate from the delivery of services, aiming to prevent bias and promote individual choice and independence in accessing long-term services and supports.

Any real or perceived incompatibility between an agency or agency

A way for individuals, families, or caregivers to reach out to organizations, agencies, or service providers for more information, assistance, or support.

Non-credit class or classes designed to enhance personal growth and development.

A case manager who supports people in learning about and connecting to resources in their community, planning for their future and assessing the need for services and supports.

A case manager who supports people in learning about and connecting to resources in their community, planning for their future and assessing the need for services and supports.

Medically necessary care and services included in the Medical Benefits Package as defined within 38 Code of Federal Regulation (CFR) 17.38.

The second priority category for services funded by Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). People in this category have been determined to have an urgent need for services, but do not qualify for Crisis Resolution. The person qualifies for this category by meeting one or more criteria as stated in the regulations.

The top priority category for services funded by DDA. To qualify for this category, the person has to be in crisis by meeting one or more criteria as stated in the regulations.

The third or lowest priority category for services funded by Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). To qualify for this category, the applicant shall indicate at least a current need for services.

The level of contentment individuals and their families have with the services and supports they receive, focusing on quality, effectiveness, and alignment with personal needs and goals.

One of two DDA eligibility categories for in which a person needs to meet the following criteria: Have a physical or mental condition other than a sole diagnosis of mental illness. The disability is considered severe and chronic in nature. The disability was manifested before the age of 22. The disability results in the person being unable to live independently. The person needs assistance to plan and coordinate services. “DD” eligibility is required for accessing the Community Pathways waiver and the full range of services funded by the DDA.

Services which provide structured daily activities for individuals with developmental disabilities. There are several options under these services:
Day Habilitation – teaches skills for employment and/or community living. The service is designed for each individual and his or her goals for employment. You will take part in activities in places other than you home for the majority of the day. Day habilitation services are intended to increase independence and develop and maintain motor skills, communication skills, and personal hygiene skills related to specific habilitation goals that lead to opportunities for integrated employment.

Supported Employment – designed to assist you with accessing and maintaining paid employment in the community.

Community Learning Services – activities, special assistance, support, and education to help individuals whose age, disability, or circumstances currently limits their ability to be employed and/or participate in activities in their communities. They assist you in developing the skills and social supports necessary to gain, retain, or advance in employment.

Employment Discovery and Customization – Employment discovery and customization services are designed to help access employment or explore the possibilities and impact of work. These are time-limited activities, which include assessment, discovery, customization, and training activities.

The person has a physical or mental impairment, but not just mental illness, or it can be a combination of mental and physical impairments. It will probably continue forever, and is therefore eligible for DDA services and supports.

Any services which are purchased with the use of state (and, in some instances, federal) money through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA).

Social services are managed by local county/city governments. Throughout the State, the Family Investment Administration and the Social Services Administration of the Department of Human Services oversee social services programs such as adoption; foster care; protective services to children, adults, and families; public assistance; and services to families with children. The local department of social services, funded by State government, administers public assistance programs for low-income Marylanders and those suffering economic hardships. These include the Supplemental Nutrition Program (formerly Food Stamps); the Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid); the Maryland Energy Assistance Program; and the Temporary Cash Assistance Program. In addition, local departments of social services also offer child care subsidy; child support enforcement; emergency food provision; and housing and employment assistance. With local organizations, social services departments work to provide emergency shelter and transitional housing, drug and alcohol rehabilitation programs, and even general education development (GED) courses. Find your local office here: http://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/social.html#local

The formal approval process that outlines and approves specific services, their frequency, duration, and conditions to ensure appropriate support for the individual.

The agency that provides funding and services to eligible individuals. The agency is part of the Maryland Department of Health. Find more information here: https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/home.aspx

An organization or agency that provides the hands-on, direct care and services to individuals with developmental disabilities. The provider is the entity responsible for ensuring that the necessary supports, services, and resources are available.

A service approach wherepeople receive personalized, hands-on support from service providers to meet their daily needs and goals.

An individual staff member or caregiver who works directly with people with developmental disabilities. A DSP is responsible for carrying out the tasks and services that help individuals with their daily activities, such as personal care, socialization, mobility, and community integration.

The discontinuation of a veteran’s enrolled status. Disenrollment may result because the veteran requests not to participate in VA enrollment, or when VA determines that certain priority groups will no longer be provided services. Requests to dis-enroll must be in writing.

A state funded agency that provides leadership and support to enable individuals with disabilities to live independently. ​DORS helps people with physical, emotional, intellectual, developmental, sensory and learning disabilities go to work and keep their jobs by providing services such as career assessment and counseling, assistive technology, job training, higher education and job

A system that uses electronic tools to verify and track the delivery of in-home and community-based services, ensuring accuracy, accountability, and compliance with regulations.

The process of determining if an individual meets the specific criteria to receive services and supports from the DDA, which typically involves demonstrating a qualifying condition and functional limitations.

The process by which a person with a disability applies to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) for services. Eligibility is based on definitions in Maryland State Law, Health – General, Title 7, and Developmental Disability Law. These services are not an entitlement service. Individuals must apply and be determined eligible for DDA services.

Determines financial eligibility for Medicaid under the waiver. EDD will review assets, income, and medical expenses and apply special financial eligibility rules under the waiver. Individuals must apply to the waiver regardless of their income and assets.

The process of reassessing an individual’s eligibility for services and supports over time

The system used to check Medicaid eligibility.

To ensure the individual’s health and safety needs are met in the community and in keeping with current SCI practice, the Case Manager will assist Veterans with disabilities in registering with local emergency services providers such as the local Fire Department when appropriate.

The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) in Maryland runs three special Medicaid programs known as 1915 (c) Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs. These programs include the Family Supports Waiver, Community Supports Waiver, and Community Pathways Waiver. https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/DDA_FAMILY_SUPPORTS_Waiver.aspx; https://health.maryland.gov/dda/Pages/Medicaid_Waiver_Programs.aspx

An agency through which money from the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) can be pass through for payment for services on your behalf.

the ability to make decisions about one’s own life, without being forced or coerced by others, allowing individuals to act according to their own beliefs and desires.

Money made available to agencies to provide services to individuals. Futures Planning (used interchangeably with Person-Centered Plan or Essential Lifestyle Plan) is the process of sharing and gathering information on the dreams, desires, wants and needs of people in order to develop an Individual Plan specifically tailored to their lives. A comprehensive plan may include personal, financial, and legal components. Generic Resources: Services that are available to everyone in the community, not specific to people with developmental disabilities.

A database kept by the Developmental Disabilities Administration for individuals who have been determined eligible for services but do not have a current need for them.

Personalized, achievable objectives that individuals strive to reach with support, aiming to improve their independence, skills, and quality of life.

Someone appointed by the court to make decisions for an adult with a disability who cannot make those decisions themselves, including managing their care and/or property.

A “hardship” exists when there is a significant change in your family income and net worth from the previous calendar year to the present year. You could have been working in the previous year and due to a recent disability are no longer able to work. Chances are this type of situation would create a significant change in your families income.

HIPAA is a federal law enacted in 1996. It was designated to improve availability and portability of health coverage and the efficiency of the health care system by standardizing the electronic exchange of health information and protecting the security and privacy of member-identifiable health information.

A standardized assessment used to identify potential health risks and issues, enabling timely interventions and personalized care planning.

Medicaid waivers programs that allow individuals with developmental disabilities to receive long-term care services and supports in their homes and communities, rather than in institutional settings

Provide opportunities for Medicaid beneficiaries to receive services in their own home or community rather than institutions or other isolated settings. These programs serve a variety of targeted populations groups, such as people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, physical disabilities, and/or mental illnesses. Maryland Home and Community Based Waiver Programs

Hospice/Palliative Care programs offer pain management, symptom control, and other medical services to terminally ill veterans or veterans in the late stages of the chronic disease process.

The phone-based billing system for in-home care providers that keeps record of the times and hours providers are working; allows Supports Planners to monitor the hours in accordance with the Plan of Service.

A formal document that records and details unexpected events, accidents, or injuries involving individuals, ensuring proper response and follow-up actions.

A program included in the MDH’s 1115 waiver that allows individuals residing in institutions with incomes above 300 percent of Supplemental Security Income (SSI) to move into the community while also permitting them to keep income up to 300 percent of SSI; eligibility is limited to individuals who: reside in a nursing facility for at least 90 consecutive days and are receiving Medicaid benefits for nursing facility services.

The IEP is meant to address each child’s unique learning needs and include specific educational goals. It is a legally binding document. The school must provide everything it promises in the IEP. IEPs include: student’s present level of performance (PLOP), annual educational goals, supports/services that the school will provide to help student reach their goals, modifications/accommodations, how the goals will be measured, and transition planning. For more information: http://archives.marylandpublicschools.org/MSDE/divisions/earlyinterv/docs/IEP/IEP-Parents-Guide_Condensed-IEP-RR-32015-revised.pdf

Having the information and understanding about a situation prior to making a decision.

Complex actions necessary for independent living but not as essential to daily functioning as more basic ADLs tasks such as grocery shopping, light housekeeping, making appointments, preparing meals and laundry.

The specialized program which helps people who have behavioral issues, their families, the school system and other agencies. IBMP does an extensive evaluation of the person in all their regular environments and makes recommendations. Sometimes they can also provide specialized training, extra staff and respite services, based on the evaluation.

A temporary or short-term meeting held to address immediate concerns, updates, or adjustments in an individual’s care or services before the next formal planning session.

The assessment completed by the LHD that contains information, including risks, that Supports Planners will need to use in create the Plan of Service.

Report intended to outline the steps the team plans to take to address the issue reported to MDH and prevent its recurrence.

Individual Plan for Employment (division of rehabilitation services)

A person who provides job training for a worker in a competitive location.

The degree or intensity of support and services an individual requires based on their specific needs, helping determine the appropriate care and resources needed for daily life.

LHDs administer and enforce State, county and municipal health laws, regulations, and programs in Maryland’s twenty-three counties and Baltimore City and are overseen by the Public Health Services of the Maryland Department of Health (MDH). Find your local department here: http://msa.maryland.gov/msa/mdmanual/01glance/html/healloc.html

A long stay in a nursing home setting.

The type of Medicaid a person has while in a nursing home setting.

Long-Term Services and Supports: a range of services and supports designed to assist individuals with disabilities who need help with activities of daily living (ADLs), such as bathing, dressing, eating, or managing medications, over an extended period of time. Broad term for the programs provided to participants as well as the database Supports Planners share with MDH that all work is completed in.

LISS funding is designed to improve an individual or family’s quality of life, increase or maintain independence, and participate in their communities. The LISS program uses an automated system called the Random Selection Process (lottery) to select individuals who may be eligible for funding, granting up to $2000 for services and items to address their needs. For more information, including how to apply: https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/liss.aspx

Maryland’s Aging and Disability Resource Centers are called MAP sites, Maryland’s single-point of entry to long term supports and services. MAP sites were established as the single entry point for individuals seeking long term support services. Maryland’s 20 MAP sites provide individual, person centered counseling to consumers seeking information, referral and program support for long term services.

The MAP program also provides an online, searchable resource directory to serve the public and professionals in identifying, connecting and accessing private and public resources: www. marylandaccesspoint.info. Individuals can use the website to directly find and contact service providers or they can find an appropriate agency in their local area to contact for counseling and assistance. Find your local office here: https://www.marylandaccesspoint.info/consumer/connect.php

Maryland’s State Unit on Aging designated to manage, design and advocate for benefits, programs and services for the elderly and their families; administers the Older Americans Act and the Aging and Disability Resource Center initiative in partnership with the local Area Agencies on Aging. For more information on programs and services: http://www.aging.maryland.gov/Pages/ProgramsAndServices.aspx

Authorized by Senate Bill 188 in 2004, the Maryland Department of Disabilities is charged with unifying and improving the delivery of services to people with disabilities by working collaboratively with all state government agencies; and develops and facilitates the implementation of the State Disabilities Plan, calling for collaborative partnerships with state agencies to improve services for people with disabilities.

Formerly known and the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH) the Maryland Department of Health serves to promote and improve the health and safety of all Marylanders through disease prevention, access to care, quality management, and community engagement. MDH has four major divisions – Public Health Services, Behavioral Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Health Care Financing.

The annual Plan of Service date.

A program, jointly funded by the federal and state governments, which pays for medical care for low-income individuals and families, as well as older adults and individuals with disabilities. To receive Medicaid, an individual must go through an application process and meet certain financial requirements.

A written agreement between a State and the Federal Government that outlines Medicaid eligibility standards, provider requirements, payment methods, and health benefit packages. A Medicaid State Plan is submitted by each State and approved by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

A program, funded by the federal and state governments, which pays for medical care for low-income individuals or families, as well as elderly or disabled individuals. To receive Medicaid, an individual must meet certain financial requirements and also must go through an application process. To learn more about Maryland’s Medicaid Program and how to apply: http://dhr.maryland.gov/weathering-tough-times/medical-assistance/

The process of confirming an individual’s eligibility for medical assistance, such as Medicaid, ensuring access to necessary healthcare services and supports.

Medical Day Care is a structured group program that provides health, social, and related support services to functionally disabled adults, age 16 and older. The Program provides individuals the opportunity to receive medical care during the day in a community-based setting offering individuals an alternative to nursing facility care.

A federal program that provides health care coverage for people aged 65 and older, as well as some younger individuals with specific health problems. Medicare Part A covers hospitalization, extended care and nursing home care; Medicare Part B covers outpatient services, and is subject to a monthly premium.

Medicare is federal health insurance for anyone age 65 and older, and some people under 65 with certain disabilities or conditions.

The State’s Money Follows the Individual policy allows individuals, who reside in institutions and whose services are being funded by Medicaid, to apply for the waiver program regardless of budgetary caps.

Will help people transition from an institution, for example a nursing facility, to community living in an apartment, private home, or small group setting. MFP initiatives increase outreach to individuals in institutions and decrease barriers to transition. New efforts under MFP include peer mentoring, enhanced transition assistance, improved information technology, housing assistance, flexible transition funds, and the addition of waiver services to existing waivers. Learn more here: https://mmcp.health.maryland.gov/longtermcare/Pages/Maryland-Money-Follows-the-Person.aspx

The continuous process of tracking and assessing an person’s health, safety, service delivery, and progress toward personal goals to ensure they receive appropriate care and support.

Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MYLTSS) is a system where long-term care services are provided through a managed care model, with a single managed care organization (MCO) coordinating and overseeing the individual’s care instead of using multiple providers or a fee-for-service system.

Connections that individuals depend on that are provided through personal relationships within the family, home environment, work place, and through participation in the community that enhance their quality of life and do not require compensation. (Ex. Co-workers, parents/other family members, friends, partnerships through volunteer opportunities)

The process of guiding and supporting people with disabilities and their families to access services, resources, and information to meet their needs.

Services that are not funded by the Developmental Disabilities Administration. Section 8 housing and public education services are two examples of non-DDA services.

Normal State business hours are 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday except State Holidays, which can be found at: http://www.dbm.maryland.gov – keyword State Holidays.

A facility that provides 24/7 skilled care to those with medical needs; most nursing facilities have short term rehabilitation as well as long term care.

The device given to a participant if they do not have a reliable phone that allows the provider to clock in and out and records the time they worked in ISAS.

The process of accepting applications for enrollment at any time during the year.

A service provided to those living in a nursing home, who are expressing an interest in moving back to the community; Options Counselors are employed by the AAA as well as CILs, although in some cases, a Supports Planner will have to provide these services.

Funding may also be available from other sources such as Maryland Department of Health (MDH), Medical Assistance, Medicare or individual’s private insurance.

The measurable results or goals individuals aim to achieve through services and supports, focusing on improving their quality of life, independence, and community participation.

Refers to health care a patient receives without being admitted to a hospital. Examples include office visits, x-rays, lab tests and some surgical procedures.

Care provided primarily to relieve symptoms of a disease or condition rather than for curative purposes.

A person who is enrolled in a program such as CPAS, CFC, CO and ICS.

A document used to record detailed information about an individual’s interaction with service providers, including the services delivered, progress made, and compliance with billing and regulations.

An individual’s preferences, needs, values, and goals in planning and decision-making, ensuring they are actively involved in tailoring services and supports to help them achieve a meaningful and productive life aligned with their unique aspirations

A customized plan developed with the persons’s input to identify their strengths, preferences, goals, and support needs, ensuring that services and supports align with their desires for a meaningful and fulfilling life.

A collaborative process where the person with developmental disabilities, along with their family, caregivers, and support team, create a personalized plan focused on the individual’s preferences, strengths, and goals, ensuring they are the central decision-maker in planning their supports and future.

A person employed by licensed provider agency to provide care to a participant in the participant’s home. Funding for PAs comes through CPAS, CFC, CO and ICS.

A unit installed in a participant’s home that calls 911 in the event of an emergency by pushing a button on a bracelet or necklace worn by the participant; the participant must be found eligible for this service.

Plan generated by the LHD nurse containing a narrative about the applicant as well as recommended services; a Supports Planner will review the POC with an applicant when creating the Plan of Service.

Plan created by Supports Planners based on the InterRAI, POC and the participant’s preferences and submitted to MDH to approve services; types of POS can include provisional, initial, annual and revised.

PORII: procedures for reporting, investigating, and addressing serious incidents like abuse or accidents to ensure the safety and well-being of individuals.

Legal authorization for a designated person (called the agent) to make decisions about another person’s property, finances, or medical care. You are still your own guardian, but the agent can make decisions for you.

Health Care that emphasizes prevention, early detection, and treatment.

The clinician who is responsible for the supervision, coordination, and provision of the veteran’s medical care. This clinician provides routine health services and is the veteran’s first point of contact when the veteran becomes sick. The primary care provider can easily refer patients to a specialist (such as a surgeon) should they require care outside the scope of his or her expertise.

A system used to determine the urgency or level of need for individuals seeking services and supports

A professional or team of professionals responsible for overseeing, managing, and guiding the development, implementation, and quality of services and programs designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities

Tracking and evaluating an individual’s advancement in achieving the personalized goals outlined in their care or service plan, while adjusting services as needed to support their development and improve their quality of life.

A device which replaces all or a portion of a part of the human body. A prosthetic device can be used when a part of the body is permanently damaged, is absent, or is malfunctioning.

Term that refers to licensed DDA providers who provide a variety services. For a list of licensed DDA providers here: https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/providers.aspx

Refers to people who are low income and receive help paying their Medicare part A and B premiums.

Frameworks and processes designed to ensure the effective and efficient delivery of services that support individuals with developmental disabilities, focusing on outcomes that enhance their quality of life and well-being.

Refers to any event that needs to be reported to MDH by a Supports Planner.

Someone appointed by the Social Security Administration (SSA) to receive and manage Social Security or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits on behalf of a beneficiary who is unable to manage their own finances. This person helps manage benefits or income from government agencies and helps to make sure that the benefits and money are used for basic needs like medical care, food, housing, and clothing.

The process by which an individual or family seeking services for someone with a developmental disability is connected to appropriate resources and support programs

Short-term care provided to a person for the purpose of providing relief for the parent or primary caregivers. Respite care can mean many things to a parent/caregiver: time to relax, time to spend alone, time to spend with other family members, or assistance when emergency care is needed.

Refer to the fundamental legal, human, and civil rights that individuals with developmental disabilities are entitled to, ensuring they are treated with dignity, respect, and equality

Potential challenges or dangers that individuals with developmental disabilities may face in various aspects of their lives, including their health, safety, well-being, and quality of life.

Generated by the InterRAI assessment and assigns a budget to each participant.

A service model that gives a person with developmental disabilities greater control and choice over the services and supports they receive by selecting providers, managing services, and handling their own budgets within specific guidelines.

Those individuals who have chosen to assert their right to choose what is best for them.

Practicing self-determination means that the individual makes the decisions about his or her life, supports, and how his or her budgeted funds are spent.

Self-Directed Services is often referenced as SDS.

All people, which includes people with disabilities, should choose who they live with, how they spend their day, participate in the community in ways they choose, and spend time with people important to them. Self-direction gives waiver participants and families greater control over the services they receive, how they receive them, and who provides them. At the same time, people who self-direct must be willing to take on the responsibility of managing their services.

• You will be in control of your budget for the purchase of services and supports
• You select and arrange for the services and supports in your individual plan
• You are accountable for using your budget to more effectively meet your needs
• You can hire, train, and fire employees

Your CCS or Supports Planner can assist you in choosing your services and, if needed, can connect you to a Support Broker and a Fiscal Management Service to support you.

A case manager who supports people in learning about and connecting to resources in their community, planning for their future and assessing the need for services and supports.

A range of personalized supports, such as healthcare, personal care, education, and vocational training, designed to help individuals lead independent and fulfilling lives.

A federal insurance program that provides benefits to retired people and those who are unemployed or disabled.

The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program pays benefits to disabled adults and children who have limited income and resources. SSI benefits also are payable to people 65 and older without disabilities who meet the financial limits. Students may apply for SSI on their 18th birthday. They are considered a family of “one” and their income alone is taken into consideration. Find more information here: https://www.ssa.gov/disabilityssi/ssi.html For other SSA benefits: https://www.ssa.gov/disability/

Pays benefits to you and certain members of your family if you are “insured,” meaning that you worked long enough and paid Social Security taxes. http://www.ssa.gov/planners/disability

A legal tool that allows individuals with disabilities to receive financial support without jeopardizing their eligibility for government benefits like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI)

Denote Medicaid eligibility for programs (refer to handout for complete list of codes).

Refers to a program that helps low-income people pay their Medicare Part B premiums.

The process of liquidating assets and spending of assets and money in order to qualify for Medicaid.

A term given for the different ways to meet peoples needs. Supports are typically people, places, resources, and activities in our community.

Provide case management services to participants in CPAS, CFC, CO and ICS including linking applicants/participants with Medicaid and non-Medicaid resources to support them in remaining in their community or moving back to their community.

Agencies who employ Supports Planners and their services; Service Coordination is a SPA.

If you can’t make medical decisions and don’t have an Advance Directive (Plans for what is to happen if you are to be on life saving equipment), your healthcare provider can ask someone like your spouse, adult child, parent, or sibling to decide for you. This doesn’t require legal processing.

A specialized service that assists Medicaid-eligible people with complex needs in gaining access to necessary medical, social, educational, and other support services, focusing on a collaborative process of assessment, planning, facilitation, and advocacy to meet a person’s needs.

A group of individuals, including the person, their family, caregivers, and professionals, working together to support the person in achieving their goals and living a fulfilling life.

Moving from one DDA-funded service or program to another, or from a non-DDA waiver program to a DDA-operated Medicaid waiver program.

Students transitioning from school to adult services are typically referred to as “Transitioning Youth.” Students may be eligible for a funding source through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) to assist eligible individuals in the transition from school to work after the age of 21. Learn more here: https://dda.health.maryland.gov/Pages/TY.aspx

Damage to the brain caused by an external force; Brain Injury Waiver provides habilitation, case management, supported employment, and more service types to individuals who are found eligible.

The term ‘veteran’ means a person who served in the active military, naval, or air service, and who was discharged or released under conditions other than dishonorable. When seeking support, veterans are often eligible for specific programs based on their military service.

Regular check-ins or interactions by family members, caregivers, service providers, or regulatory agencies to assess the well-being, safety, and quality of care of individuals with developmental disabilities.

A list of individuals who are eligible for services but are unable to access them immediately due to limited resources and capacity

Waives some eligibility requirements in order for people to obtain services.

The process for individuals with developmental disabilities to apply for Medicaid-funded home and community-based services, requiring applicants to demonstrate their need for these services and meet specific eligibility criteria

Most waivers in Maryland have a waiting list, however some waiting lists are so long, that you must first be placed on a registry before being moved to the actual waiting list.

Wraparound is intended to ensure that individuals with complex needs (and multiple agency involvement) benefit from a coordinated care planning process that produces a single plan of care that cuts across all agencies and providers.