Starting an HCBS Agency in California

What You Need to Know About Starting a Specific HCBS Agency in California


These videos give an overview of the various Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) available in California for providers who want to learn how to start or operate an HCBS agency in the state. Each video explains the purpose of the service, provider requirements, licensing process, and how the program functions in California. Use these videos to better understand the responsibilities, standards, and steps involved in becoming or working with approved HCBS providers. Explore each section to find the service that best matches your goals or area of interest.

 

Respite Care

Respite Care Services in California provide short-term, temporary relief to unpaid primary caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities, chronic conditions, or aging-related needs. These services are offered through California’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, Regional Centers, and the Self-Determination Program (SDP). Respite care can be provided in-home, in the community, or at licensed out-of-home facilities.

 
 

Residential Care 

Community-Based Residential Services in California offer 24-hour support in small, home-like settings for individuals with developmental disabilities who need ongoing supervision, skill-building, or behavioral support. These services are funded and authorized by Regional Centers under the Lanterman Act and delivered in compliance with Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) standards.

 
 

Supported Employment

Supported Employment Services in California help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) prepare for, obtain, and maintain competitive employment in integrated community settings. These services are authorized through California’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, regional center funding under the Lanterman Act, and are administered by the California Department of Developmental Services (DDS).

 
 

Personal Assistance

Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in California provide essential, non-medical support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) who require help with daily living tasks. These services are authorized through California’s Regional Center system under the Lanterman Act, and in some cases through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers. PAS is tailored to promote independence and quality of life in home and community settings.

 
 

Adaptive Equipment

Adaptive Equipment Services in California provides access to specialized equipment and assistive devices that help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) maintain safety, mobility, communication, and independence in their homes and communities. These services are funded through California’s Regional Center system under the Lanterman Act, as well as authorized in some cases through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.

 
 

Skilled Nursing

Skilled Nursing Services in California provide licensed, physician-directed medical care in the home for individuals with ongoing medical needs. These services are available under Medi-Cal (California Medicaid) through both State Plan benefits and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, such as the Nursing Facility/Acute Hospital (NF/AH) Waiver and are regulated by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) and the California Department of Public Health (CDPH).

 
 

Day Habilitation

Day Habilitation Services in California provide structured, person-centered daytime support to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). These services are designed to enhance life skills, social engagement, and community participation and are funded through California’s Regional Centers under the Lanterman Act, with alignment to HCBS federal standards.

 
 

Adult Day Health

Adult Day Health Care (ADHC) Services in California offer coordinated health, therapeutic, and social services to individuals with chronic conditions, developmental disabilities, or cognitive impairments. ADHC is a licensed, community-based medical model authorized under California Medi-Cal through the Community-Based Adult Services (CBAS) Program and also coordinated by Managed Care Plans.

 
 

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology Services in California help individuals with developmental disabilities acquire, use, and maintain devices that support communication, mobility, self-care, learning, and community access. These services are offered through California’s Regional Centers, Self-Determination Program (SDP), and select Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.

 
 

Behavioral Health

Behavioral Health Services in California provide assessment, therapy, and behavioral intervention for individuals with developmental disabilities, mental health conditions, or co-occurring disorders. These services are delivered through California Regional Centers, Managed Care Plans, the Self-Determination Program (SDP), and Medi-Cal Specialty Mental Health Services under county Behavioral Health Departments.

 
 

Home Modification

Home Modification Services in California help individuals with developmental disabilities or physical limitations live more safely and independently in their own homes. These services are authorized through California Regional Centers, the Self-Determination Program (SDP), and certain Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, and must align with the individual’s Individual Program Plan (IPP) or Person-Centered Plan (PCP).

 
 

Case Management

Case Management Services in California support individuals with developmental disabilities by helping them access, coordinate, and monitor services based on their unique needs and goals. These services are primarily delivered through California’s Regional Centers under the Lanterman Act, and may also be authorized through the Self-Determination Program (SDP) and select Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.

 
 

Homemaker Services

Homemaker Services in California help individuals with developmental disabilities, chronic conditions, or aging-related needs maintain a clean, safe, and healthy home environment. These non-medical services are offered through California’s Regional Centers, the Self-Determination Program (SDP), and in some cases, under Medi-Cal Waiver Programs such as HCBS-DD and ARChoices equivalents.

 
 

Transportation Services

Transportation Services in California help individuals with developmental disabilities travel to and from day programs, employment sites, medical appointments, and community activities. These services are authorized under California Regional Center programs, the Self-Determination Program (SDP), HCBS Waivers, and in some cases, through Medi-Cal Managed Care for Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT).

 
 

Home Health

Home Health Services in California provide short-term, intermittent medical care and support in a participant’s home under a physician’s direction. These services are authorized through California Medicaid (Medi-Cal), Medicare, Managed Care Plans, and some Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers. They are essential for individuals who are homebound, recovering from illness, or managing chronic conditions.

 
 

Meal and Nutrition

Nutritional Services in California support the dietary health and nutritional well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities by providing assessments, meal planning, and education tailored to medical and personal needs. These services are authorized through California Regional Centers, the Self-Determination Program (SDP), and may also be included in some Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers.