“When I first heard about the Office of Developmental Programs, I was already juggling school meetings, therapies, and paperwork. The idea of navigating one more system? It felt impossible.”
Sound familiar? You’re not alone. Many families feel overwhelmed when first encountering Pennsylvania’s Office of Developmental Programs (ODP). This article breaks it down into manageable steps and equips you with the tools you need to begin the journey with clarity.
What is ODP?
ODP is part of the PA Department of Human Services and exists to support people with intellectual disabilities, autism, and developmental disabilities. Their goal? To help individuals lead full, self-directed lives in their communities.
Who Is Eligible?
- Intellectual Disability: IQ below 70 and adaptive functioning deficits
- Developmental Disability: Children under 9 with a high likelihood of future ID or ASD
- Autism Spectrum Disorder
Plus, your loved one must qualify financially for Medicaid Waivers.
Your Roadmap: How to Get Started
- Find Your Local Administrative Entity (AE)
Use this directory: County AE Directory - Register
Bring a birth certificate, Social Security card, proof of address, assessments, and MA card (if applicable). - Eligibility Review
The AE must make a decision within 14 days of receiving complete documentation. - Apply for Medical Assistance
Via COMPASS - Choose a Supports Coordination Organization (SCO)
This person will help you navigate services and planning. - Complete the PUNS Form
It determines how urgently your loved one needs services. - Begin Service Planning
Once a waiver slot is available, your SCO will help create the Individual Support Plan (ISP).
What Is a Waiver?
- A waiver is a special program under Medicaid that allows Pennsylvania to provide home and community-based services (HCBS) to individuals who would otherwise need care in an institution or facility.
- Think of it this way:
Instead of being required to live in a group home or residential setting to receive support, a waiver allows your loved one to receive services while living at home or in their own community. - These waivers are called “waivers” because the federal government has agreed to waive certain rules that normally limit Medicaid services to medical or institutional settings. In exchange, states like Pennsylvania can offer more flexible, person-centered services in real-life settings.
What Is a Waiver Cap?
Some waivers have an annual “cap”—a limit on how much funding is available per person each year. It’s not a cap on how many services you can receive, but on how much the state will pay in a 12-month period for those services (not including supports coordination).
- P/FDS Waiver: Approx. $41,000/year
- Community Living Waiver: Approx. $85,000/year
- Consolidated Waiver: No cap (based on assessed needs)
- Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) and ACAP: No cap, but services vary
Important: These amounts may shift slightly over time depending on state and federal updates. Your Supports Coordinator can help you stay current.
What Services Are Covered by Waivers?
Each waiver offers a wide menu of services to support everyday life. Here are some common options:
- In-Home & Community Support: One-on-one help with daily living skills, hygiene, cooking, transportation, and building independence.
- Respite: Short-term care to give families and caregivers a break.
- Supported Employment: Job coaching, skills development, and help finding or keeping a job.
- Companion Services: Non-medical supervision or social support for adults in their homes or communities.
- Home & Vehicle Modifications: Ramps, bathroom accessibility, or adapted vehicles to increase independence.
- Behavioral Support Services: Assessment and development of strategies to manage challenging behaviors.
- Assistive Technology: Devices that help individuals communicate, learn, or stay safe.
- Family/Caregiver Training: Support to help families understand and better meet their loved one’s needs.
- Therapy (Speech, Occupational, Physical): Services may be available if not already covered by private insurance or Medical Assistance.
Helpful Links
You don’t have to master everything today. Just take the first step. The system is built to support you—but sometimes you have to know how to ask.