Habilitation Services in Delaware


1. Program Definition and Services 

Habilitation Services in Delaware help individuals acquire, maintain, and improve skills and functioning for daily living. Services include: 

  • Day habilitation 
  • Residential habilitation 
  • Supported employment 
  • Physical and occupational therapy 
  • Speech-language pathology
  • Other services for people with disabilities in various settings 

 

2. Regulations 

Habilitation Services are governed by Delaware Health and Social Services (DHSS) regulations and federal Medicaid HCBS waiver requirements. 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be certified by the Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS). Specific certification requirements may vary by service type. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) within the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services oversees Habilitation Services. 

 

5. Application Process 

Providers can apply to become authorized through the DDDS website. The application process includes submitting the required documentation and undergoing review. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

While not explicitly listed, required documents likely include: 

  • Completed application form 
  • Program services description 
  • Policies and procedures manual 
  • Staff qualifications documentation 
  • Proof of insurance coverage 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval is not specified in the available information. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit pre-application process provided. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, providers must ensure their staff are fully trained and professionally qualified. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • DDDS has developed a quality manual detailing standards by service type to assist providers with implementing federal HCBS setting requirements. 
  • Residential habilitation services require a residency agreement for compliance with federal regulations. 
  • Individual Residential Budgeting Instrument (IRBI) is used to determine service levels and funding for residential habilitation. 
  • As of February 28, 2025, Delaware continues to offer various Habilitation Services through HCBS waiver programs. 

 

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