Delaware

Enhancing Service Systems: By participating in a community of practice, DDDS aims to Improve the systems in place for providing services to Individuals with disabilities and families.  This could Involve refining processes, identifying areas for improvement, and implementing best practices to ensure access to services and that services are effective and response to the needs of the Individuals.

Access to Information: One of the Division’s objectives Is to empower Individuals with disabilities by providing them with the necessary tools and Information to make Informed decisions about their lives. This might include access to resources, educational materials, and guidance that helps individuals and families navigate various domains in their lives, foster greater Independence and self-determination.

Strengthening Partnerships: Collaboration is a key aspect of any successful initiative. By participating in a community of practice, the Division seeks to build and strengthen partnerships with other organizations, agencies, and families that share a common Interest in improving services for Individuals with disabilities and families. Through shared Initiatives, ideas, and resources, these partnerships can lead to building comprehensive and effective resources and supports.

Workforce Development: A strong and skilled workforce Is essential for delivering high-quality services. The Division’s focus on strengthening the workforce Indicates a commitment to providing training, professional development opportunities, and support for Individuals who are Involved In delivering services to people with disabilities. A well-trained workforce can make a significant Impact on the lives of these we serve and their families.

Collaboration and Sharing: Participating in a community of practice allows for the exchange of knowledge, experiences, and expertise among members. This collaborative environment encourages the sharing of successful strategies, lessons learned from challenges, and Innovative Ideas that can collectively Improve the quality of services and outcomes for Individuals with disabilities and their families.

Continuous exploration of expanding HCBS 1915 ( c ) Wavier Services to better meet Individual and Family Needs. 

• Leveraging Medicaid Authorities to enhance supports to Individuals and families through targeted case management services.
• Increasing Self-Directed and Respite Budget in 2023 Waiver renewal
• Increasing budget for home modifications in 2023 Waiver renewal
• Enhanced Rates for ASL fluent staff; Registered Behavior Technicians
• Ability for Direct Support Staff to provide specialized supports in acute care settings including self-directed caregivers.
• Tiered rates for Behavioral & Nursing Consultation
• Ability to fund hearing aids, Audiologist.
• Increased self-directed budget for Personal Care/ Respite/Camp; minimum wage increased to $15 per hour.

• Capacity Building Institute research phase of identifying access barriers.
• National Center for Start Services research phase of identifying access barriers.
• Partnered with Division of Substance Abuse and Mental Health on Crisis Intervention and Response Services & Supports for IDD/DD

Workforce Development

• Direct Support Professional Apprenticeship Program – Collaboration between Division of Developmental Disabilities Services, Department of Education Secondary Education, and Ability Network of DE to develop a Worked Based Learning Course to introduce exiting Highschool Seniors
• LEAD Academy – Curriculum for DSP Leadership Development through the lens of CtLC Framework
• DSP Academy – Collaboration with Ability Network of DE to provide training and support for Individuals with disabilities to become Direct Support Professionals
• CtLC embedded in training curriculums for DSP’s
• DDDS Provider Training infuses courses around CtLC Framework and CoP
• Investment in Registered Behavior Technician training for 100 DSP’s
• Investment In training and onboarding for Supported Employment Specialists

• Revised and shortened application for Division of Developmental Disabilities Services eligibility determination
• Removing upper age limit of HCBS 1915 (i) SPA Pathways to Employment Program
• Waiver amendment to Include Medical Residential Habilitation to HCBS 1915(c) Lifespan Waiver
• Expanding Authorized Provider Network
• Building cultural competency In case management to Deaf Individuals served by DDDS
• Embedded CtLC Tools Into Electronic Case Record
• Unifying Electronic Case Record for Information sharing across Providers

• Meet Amy! – Video on a Good Life: https://fb.watch/4ttSu1oqJf/

• Team/State DD Agency: https://www.dhss.delaware.gov/dhss/ddds/
• Team/State DD Council Link: https://ddc.delaware.gov/