1. Define the Program or Service
Supported Employment in Nebraska is a service designed to assist individuals with significant disabilities in obtaining and maintaining competitive integrated employment. It involves person-centered support to help individuals achieve their employment goals through job search, acquisition, and retention services. The service is delivered in integrated community settings and is tailored to the individual's strengths, abilities, interests, and informed choice
2. Regulations Governing the Program
The program is governed by:
- Federal Definition: Supported Employment refers to competitive work in integrated settings, consistent with the individual's strengths and abilities
- Nebraska Regulations: Supported Employment is funded by the Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) in cooperation with Vocational Rehabilitation (VR), aiming to support recovery and rehabilitation through community-based employment
- Nebraska Administrative Code (NAC): Providers must comply with all applicable Titles of the NAC and Nebraska State Statutes
3. Licensing or Certification Requirements
Operating as a Supported Employment provider in Nebraska requires being a Medicaid provider. Providers must comply with all applicable state regulations and standards for Medicaid services
4. Responsible State Agency
The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS), specifically the Division of Behavioral Health (DBH) and Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), are involved in overseeing Supported Employment services. Nebraska Vocational Rehabilitation (VR) also plays a crucial role in collaboration with DBH
5. Application Process
The application process involves becoming a Medicaid provider and complying with DHHS requirements. While specific online platforms are not detailed, applications typically require original signatures and supporting documents, which may need to be mailed to DHHS.
6. Required Documentation
Applicants must provide:
- A completed Medicaid provider application.
- Proof of compliance with all applicable Titles of the Nebraska Administrative Code.
- Documentation showing adherence to standards as described in the Division of Medicaid and Long-Term Care Service Provider Agreement
- Proof of staff qualifications and training plans
7. Timeline for Approval
Once a complete application is received, DHHS will review it. The timeline for approval can vary based on the completeness of the application and readiness for any necessary inspections.
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no formal pre-license application process; however, applicants should ensure they meet all operational standards and have necessary documentation ready before submitting their application.
9. Pre-Application Training
While specific pre-application training is not mandated, providers must comply with all applicable regulations and standards, which may include training on habilitation programs and data recording. Supported Employment providers are expected to deliver high-fidelity services that are person-centered and culturally sensitive
10. Additional Notes
- Providers must ensure services are delivered in integrated community employment settings.
- Supported Employment includes benefits orientation and other benefits planning services to identify available work incentives for Social Security beneficiaries
- Nebraska is moving towards an Employment First approach, emphasizing competitive integrated employment for individuals with disabilities
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