1. Program Definition and Services

Residential Support Services in North Carolina provide short-term and long-term support to children and adults with intellectual/developmental disabilities and chronic conditions. The program aims to help maintain individuals with disabilities in the community, averting the need for long-term institutional services and supports. Services include:

• In-Home Personal Care: Individual support in the individual/family home or community (Community Living and Supports)
• Residential Personal Care: Supervision and care in a licensed residential, community-based setting (Supervised Living Facilities or Group Homes)

2. Regulations

The program is governed by the following regulations:

• North Carolina Administrative Code, Title 10A, Chapter 27G (Section .5600 Supervised Living)
• North Carolina Administrative Code, Title 10A, Chapter 27G (Section .0200 Operational Rules)
• Mental Hygiene Law (NC General Statutes Chapter 122C)
• Social Services Law (Protection of People with Special Needs)
• Child Protective Services Act (State Central Register Reporting)

3. Licensing or Certification

Providers must be certified by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services and follow all Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) requirements.

4. Responsible State Agency

The Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services (DMH/DD/SAS) is responsible for reviewing applications and certifying residential support services providers.

5. Application Process

The application process is conducted through the electronic North Carolina Medicaid Portal. Providers must submit forms online to initiate the application process.

6. Required Documentation

While specific documentation requirements vary based on the target waiver, providers typically need to submit :

• Proof of compliance with state safety and operational rules
• Agency policies and procedures
• Staff qualifications and training records
• Proof of general and professional liability insurance

7. Timeline for Approval

The exact timeline for approval fluctuates based on agency capacity. Providers should contact their regional office for detailed information on current processing timeframes.

8. Pre-Application Process

Prospective providers must complete specific foundation tasks before applying. They must establish their business entity and secure necessary federal identification numbers.

9. Pre-Application Training

The state hosts mandatory administrative and compliance training sessions online. Access details are sent to qualified applicants once preliminary paperwork is reviewed.

10. Additional Notes

• Providers must ensure that intensive care settings meet all state accessibility and environmental safety guidelines
• In-Home Personal Care must be provided directly by the certified agency's employed personnel
• All direct care staff must conduct mandatory background clearances and fingerprinting screenings
• Providers must maintain detailed records of face-to-face services for Medicaid documentation and billing

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