1. Program Definition and Services 

Supported Employment in Colorado is designed to assist individuals with disabilities in obtaining and maintaining competitive integrated employment. Services include: 

• Job development and placement 

• On-the-job training and coaching 

• Ongoing support to maintain employment 

• Benefits counseling 

• Career exploration and planning 

• Customized employment services 

• Workplace assistance for individuals with elevated supervision needs 

2. Regulations 

The current regulations governing Supported Employment in Colorado are outlined in 10 CCR 2505-10 8.500.94 of the Colorado Code of Regulations. 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers of Supported Employment services must be certified. Individual Employment Specialists are required to complete performance-based certification for specific service areas. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) oversees the Supported Employment program, in collaboration with the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR). 

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted online through the Colorado Provider Enrollment system. Providers can access the online provider enrollment tool at https://www.colorado.gov/hcpf/provider-enrollment. 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documentation for providers includes: 

• Proof of certification 

• Policies and procedures manual 

• Staff qualifications and training records 

• Criminal background check results for all staff 

• Proof of liability insurance 

• Financial statements 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval is not specifically mentioned in the provided information. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the provided information. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not mandatory, providers are encouraged to complete the ACRE (Association of Community Rehabilitation Educators) Supported Employment Training offered by the Colorado Office of Employment First (COEF). This training is free for Colorado service providers. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Supported Employment services are available through various Medicaid waivers, including the Supported Living Services (SLS) and Developmental Disabilities (DD) waivers. 

• As of July 1, 2023, individual Supported Employment services are no longer subject to a member's Service Plan Authorization Limit (SPAL) for SLS Waiver members. 

• Colorado emphasizes Employment First principles, promoting competitive integrated employment as the first and preferred option for individuals with disabilities. 

• Providers must stay updated on evidence-based practices and may be invited to participate in employment pilots and new initiatives.