Waiver Waiting List Process

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

Due to limitations on the availability of funding, the Missouri Division of Developmental Disabilities is unable to immediately provide services to all individuals with disabilities. Persons will be served based on priority of need.

Are any Division services available?

Yes. Everyone who applies for services from the Division is entitled to an eligibility determination. All persons determined eligible will have a service coordinator (case manager) assigned and an annual person centered plan will be developed.

When will I begin receiving services?

• Eligible individuals on the waiting lists with the greatest need are served first regardless of the order individuals began waiting.
• Services are based on the amount of appropriated funds available to the Division of DD. Local communities with County Senate Bill 40 Boards also provide funding for some services.

How are needs prioritized?

The Division's Utilization Review (UR) process evaluates the need for a service based on its necessity in assuring an individual's health, safety and quality of life. UR considers the following:

• Homelessness
• Immediate need for life-sustaining services and there are no alternatives to Division services
• Danger to one's self or others
• Legal/forensic status
• Need to move from an institution
• Health or age of primary caregiver

How are needs categorized?

UR assigns points based on individual need in one or more of the following five categories:

• Health and Safety
• Daily Living Supports
• Family Supports
• Inclusion and/or Recreation Supports
• Long Term planning

A maximum of 12 points across categories may be assigned.

How will I know when services are available to me?

Your service coordinator will personally contact you and provide information about contract providers in your community for you to select as your service provider.

What can I do until funds are available?

• Service coordination will be provided. This includes the annual development of a person-centered plan that draws upon other available resources such as social services available from other state agencies, county-based services, local family and community supports.
• If you have not already done so, you should apply for Medicaid and SSI. Your service coordinator can assist you in applying.
• Temporary services may be authorized in emergency situations.
• Your service coordinator will refer you to other agencies and community resources that may meet your needs.

Do I have the right to appeal?

If you are waiting to participate in a waiver you have formal appeal rights. Your service coordinator will provide you information and assist you with the process if you request assistance. Or you can access the appeal information on the DMH web site. If you are waiting for services funded with MRDD State tax dollars only, formal appeal rights are not applicable. You always, however, have the right to state your concerns to the appropriate supervisor or Regional Office Director.