1. Program Definition and Services
Habilitation Services in Florida are designed to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in acquiring, maintaining, and improving skills related to activities of daily living. Services include:
- Personal hygiene skills training (e.g., bathing, oral hygiene)
- Homemaking skills training (e.g., food preparation, vacuuming, laundry)
- Social and adaptive skills training
- Supervision and specific training activities
2. Regulations
Habilitation Services in Florida are governed by:
- Florida Statutes 393.063
- Florida Administrative Code 59G-13.070
3. Licensing or Certification
Providers must be licensed or certified by the Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD).
4. Responsible State Agency
The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) oversees Habilitation Services.
5. Application Process
Providers must apply through APD. The application process may vary depending on the specific type of habilitation service.
6. Required Documentation
Required documents typically include:
- Proof of provider qualifications
- Background screening results for staff
- Policies and procedures manual
- Documentation of prior agency action or disciplinary action
7. Timeline for Approval
Approval timelines vary. Application processing can take approximately 2 to 12 weeks, depending on the provider type.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the available information.
9. Pre-Application Training
While there's no mandatory pre-application training mentioned, providers must ensure staff are trained to deliver habilitation services according to state regulations.
10. Additional Notes
- Residential Habilitation services are limited to 8 hours per day.
- There are different types of Residential Habilitation, including Standard, Behavior-Focused, Intensive-Behavior, and Live-In.
- Geographic differentials apply for residential habilitation services in certain counties (e.g., 7.5% for Miami-Dade, Broward, and Palm Beach; 20% for Monroe County).
- Providers must have a service authorization for each individual served.
- Habilitation services can be provided in various settings, including group homes, foster care facilities, and supported living arrangements.
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