ACTIVITIES OF DAILY LIVING (ADL) Routine tasks that people do every day such as getting dressed, showering, eating, and toileting.
ADULT CAREER AND CONTINUING EDUCATION SERVICES -VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION (ACCES-VR) Assists persons with disabilities to achieve and maintain employment to support independent living.
ADVANCED DIRECTIVES A written document, sometimes called a living will, to inform healthcare providers who you have chosen to speak for you in medical and other decisions if you are unable to speak for yourself.
APPLIED BEHAVIOR ANALYSIS (ABA) Helps to understand how behavior is affected by the environment and how learning takes place, primarily in the treatment of maladaptive behavior. Used in planning for development and functional skills and positive behavior.
BEHAVIOR INTERVENTION SPECIALIST (BIS) Professional who supports planning and strategies for a person in need of behavioral supports.
BEHAVIORAL INTERVENTION PLAN (BIP) OR BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT PLAN (BSP Developed after a functional behavior assessment to explain possible causes for behavior and to outline strategies for supporting the person to live a happy and more meaningful life.
BOARD-CERTIFIED BEHAVIOR ANALYST (BCBA) Professional who provides behavior analysis services and creates a plan to address needs.
supports and services
CARE COORDINATION ORGANIZATION (CCO) New York State-funded agency focused on meeting the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, providing comprehensive plans that include health, community, social and other supports.
CARE MANAGER OR CARE COORDINATOR A Care Coordination Organization professional who helps people navigate and coordinate supports and services. This includes
CERTIFIED RESIDENTIAL OPPORTUNITIES (CRO) OPWDD protocol to determine appropriate housing options for a person with intellectual or developmental disabilities.
CHILD AND ADOLESCENT NEEDS AND STRENGTHS ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (CANS) A required assessment for children 17 or younger usedto assess strengths, needs, and interests.
CHOICES OPWDD system used by agencies and providers to safely share information.
CIRCLE OF SUPPORT (COS?) A group of trusted people, chosen by the person with IDD to support them in decision-making related to OPWDD services. The individual receiving services is at the center of the circle. The COS may include the Care Manager/Care Coordinator, family, natural supports, and services providers. May be referred to as Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) or Planning Team.
CLIENT IDENTIFICATION NUMBER (CIN) Identification number assigned to people who receive Medicaid or other benefits.
COMMITTEE ON PRESCHOOL SPECIAL EDUCATION (CPSE) Multidisciplinary team responsible for identifying and arranging services for children with disabilities, age 2-5 years .
COMMITTEE ON SPECIAL EDUCATION (CSE) A multidisciplinary team responsiblefor making recommendations to meet the educational needs of students with disabilities ages 5 to 21.
COMMUNITY HABILITATION (COM HAB)An OPWDD program funded by Medicaid that provides training for people with disabilities on the skills needed to live more independently.
COMMUNITY TRANSITION STIPEND (CTS) Funding to assist people moving from a certified setting into the community. Can be used for rent, security deposit and household items and goods.
COORDINATED ASSESSMENT SYSTEM (CAS) An assessment to identify strengths, needs and supports needed for a person with IDD. Required for anyone 18 years of age or older, including those who are newly eligible. CRISIS SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH INTELLECTUAL AND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (CSIDD) Crisis prevention and response services for peeople with IDD who have complex behavioral needs.
DAY HABILITATION (DAY HAB) A site-based OPWDD program to assist people to gain or improve their self-help, socialization, adaptive, communication and travel skills.
DAY HABILITATION WITHOUT WALLS (WOW) Day habilitation services in the community, without a specific site-based location. DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH (DOH) A New York State agency that sets state-wide health policy.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES PROFILE -2 (DDP-2) An assessment used to provide a description of a person’s abilities and challenges as they relate to their service needs. It is reviewed every two years, or more, if there are significant changes in needs or ability. The DDP-2 generates a score, referred to as Individual Services Planning Model (ISPM).
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES REGIONAL OFFICE (DDRO) OPWDD regional offices responsible for determining eligibility, coordinating programs and support. There are fiveDDRO regions in New York State.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES SERVICE OFFICE (DDSO) OPWDD satellite offices within DDROs to oversee state-operated residences and day programs.
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY (DD) A group of conditions characterized by an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior that begins during the developmental period, may impact day-to-day functioning, and typically last throughout a lifetime.
DIRECT SUPPORT PROFESSIONAL (DSP) A professional whose role is to support people with disabilities to live more independent, productive lives in a one-on-one setting.
Also known as Childhood Disability Benefits, are available to “children” beginning at age 18 off a parent’s work record. Children are eligible for this program if they are disabled prior to age 22, and have a parent who is receiving disability benefits, retirement benefits or has passed away. The benefit amount is based on their parent’s earnings, and allows for Medicare eligibility after two years.
DURABLE MEDICAL EQUIPMENT (DME) Home equipment to improve quality of life, such as canes, oxygen equipment and wheelchairs.
EARLY INTERVENTION (EI) Supports and services for children, from birth to 3 years old, with developmental delays and disabilities. Includes speech, physical and occupational therapies, and other services.
EMPLOYER AUTHORITY A Self-Direction program that allows people to hire, manage and change those employed to support them
ENVIRONMENTAL MODIFICATION (EMOD) Physical adaptations to the home that ensure the health, welfare and safety of a person with a disability. May include handrails, ramps or other physical changes to a living space.
services to help families care for their family member with a developmental disability at home. Includes respite, recreation, counseling, transportation, and other services.
FISCAL INTERMEDIARY (FI) Professional role to assist people with management and payment of a Self-Direction budget. They provide support with compliance, administrative and Human Resources support.
FRONT DOOR First point of contact for individuals, parents and advocates interested in OPWDD eligibility and services.
FUNCTIONAL BEHAVIOR ASSESSMENT (FBA) An assessment used to identify challenging behaviors and their triggers, so that an appropriate plan can be developed.
GUARDIAN AD LITEM (GAL) Assigned by a judge, this individual helps a person who cannot come to court or protect their rights and interests to attend court dates. The individual assists in coordinating services but has no legal power to manage any other affairs for the person.
GUARDIANSHIP ARTICLE 17-A When a judge appoints a parent or caregiver to help protect the interests of a person with IDD, 18 years or older, who is not able to make decisions on their own, such as personal, financial, and medical. Parents must petition the court for guardianship.
GUARDIANSHIP ARTICLE-18
HEALTH CARE PROXY A document appointing an agent to legally make healthcare decisions for you and to ensure you are treated according to your wishes, should you become unable to make decisions.
HEALTH INSURANCE PORTABILITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY ACT (HIPAA) Federal legislation requiring healthcare providers to ensure the privacy of patient records and health information.
HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES (HCBS) Medicaid-funded supports and services for people with developmental disabilities to allow them to live at home and remain engaged in the community.
INDIVIDUAL DIRECTED GOODS AND SERVICES (IDGS) Self-Direction funded category of services, equipment or supplies to help you achieve goals in activities such as classes, training, health clubs and transportation.
INDIVIDUAL SERVICES PLANNING MODEL (ISPM).- The score that is derived from the DDP-2 Assessment. This score is used when determining service approval decisions, including the amount of service that will be approved, and the amount of an individual’s Personal Resource Account (PRA).
INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTS AND SERVICES HOUSING SUBSIDY (ISS) OPWDD-funded services to support rent or mortgage for people who live independently. Individuals are expected to contribute 30% of their income towards rent.
INDIVIDUALIZED EDUCATIONAL PLAN (IEP) An education plan developed by parents and school personnel to guide instruction, supports, and services the child needs to progress and thrive in school.
INDIVIDUALIZED PLAN OF PROTECTIVE OVERSIGHT (IPOP) A formal safety plan. Part of the Staff Action Plan.
INDIVIDUALIZED RESIDENTIAL ALTERNATIVE (IRA) OPWDD-funded group homes for adults 21 or older with IDD. Services include adaptive and behavioral skill development, daily living assistance, and community inclusion.
INTELLECTUAL DISABILITY (ID) A neurological-developmental disorder resulting in limitations with reasoning, learning, problem solving and adaptive behavior.
INTELLECTUAL OR DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITY (IDD) Disorders that affect physical, intellectual and/or emotional development, typically present at birth and may involve multiple body parts or symptoms.
INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM (IDT) A group of people chosen by the person who supports them in decision making related to their services. May include the Care Manager/Care Coordinator, family, natural supports, and services providers. Also known as the Circle of Support.
INTERMEDIATE CARE FACILITY (ICF) An OPWDD-funded group home for adults over 21 with complex health needs. Includes 24/7 care and higher levels of nursing support.
LEVEL OF CARE ELIGIBILITY DETERMINATION FORM (LCED) An annual assessment required to establish and maintain eligibility for HCBS waiver services.
LICENSED CLINICAL SOCIAL WORKER (LCSW) Professional social work role requiring extensive training and expertise in mental health.
LIFE PLAN (LP) A written plan that guides services the person receives, and outlines goals and safeguards. The Life Plan is created annually by the person with IDD, the Care Manager and the Circle of Support.
MEDICAID A federal health insurance program, administered by states, to pay for medical and other expenses for eligible persons. Includes low adults and children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities.
MENTAL HYGIENE LEGAL SERVICES New York State agency representing, advocating, and litigating on behalf of individuals with disabilities who live in certified settings.
NOTICE OF DECISION (NOD) An OPWDD letter to notifies a person their enrollment into services has been processed.
OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY (OT) Therapy that promotes, maintains and restores functional independence in daily living skills. Focuses on fine motor skills.
OFFICE FOR PEOPLE WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES (OPWDD) New York State agency responsible for coordinating services for persons with developmental disabilities, including intellectual disabilities, Cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Prader-Willi syndrome, traumatic brain injury, and other neurological impairments.
OFFICE OF MENTAL HEALTH (OMH) New York State agency that sets standards for the quality of facilities and programs for persons with mental illness or serious emotional disturbances.
OTHER THAN PERSONAL SERVICES (OTPS) Self Direction funding category to help pay for certain services or daily living needs such as internet services and clothing.
PARENTAL DEEMING To qualify for Medicaid and enroll in HCBS waiver funded services, a person under the age of 18 and living in their parents’ home may need to seek a waiver of parental income and resources.
PATHWAY TO EMPLOYMENT A program to help identify attainable career paths and plans that may include shadowing, internships, and volunteering.
PERSON-CENTERED PLANNING (PCP) A philosophy that focuses first on the person and their express desires, wishes, needs, and goals. Person-center planning seeks to understand, empower, and respect the person with focus on enhancing independence. Link to more info.
PERSONAL ASSESSMENT TOOL FOR HEALTH AND SERVICES (PATHS) An annual comprehensive assessment to help individuals and families determine areas of strengths and need. It can be reviewed and updated whenever there are significant changes in a person’s life.
PERSONAL OUTCOME MEASURES (POMS) An assessment tool where people share what is important to them to better focus services and improve quality of life.
PERSONAL RESOURCE ACCOUNT (PRA) An annual budget assigned to an individual to pay for self- directed supports and services.
PHYSICAL THERAPY (PT) Therapy focused on improving mobility, function, strength, and balance, and to reduce pain and prevent injury.
PLAN OF NURSING SERVICES (PONS) Nursing care for people living in certified settings outlining treatment plans for chronic conditions. Guides others who work with the person.
POWER OF ATTORNEY (POA) A document authorizing a person you appoint to make your legal and financial decisions.
PREVOCATONAL SERVICES (PRE-VOC) Pre-employment or job readiness activities, preparing the person for paid employment or unpaid meaningful activities. Can be site-based or in the community.
PROTECTED HEALTH INFORMATION (PHI) Health information in any form, including physical and electronic records, written or spoken medical, psychiatric, psychological evaluations, date of birth, social security number, lab test results, medical bills, etc.
QUALIFIED INTELLECTUAL DISABILITIES PROFESSIONAL (QIDP) A professional human services role designated to work with people with intellectual disabilities.
RECEIPT OF ACKNOWLEDGMENT (ROA) An OPWDD form verifying the person has been provided certain required documents.
REGIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION ORGANIZATION (RHIO) A group of organizations that share health-related information to improve service delivery and outcomes
REQUEST FOR SERVICE AUTHORIZATION (RSA) An OPWDD form required to initially request supports, documenting amount of support and the agencies that agree to provide them.
RESPITE Short-term care for individuals with IDD to enable a primary caregiver time away from the demands of care giving. Can be in the home or community.
Service Amendment Request Tool (SART) – Previously known as the Service Amendment Request Form (SARF) – Application used by the Care Manager/Care Coordinator to request new HCBS waiver services, or changes to HCBS waiver services from OPWDD. It is used for individuals already enrolled in the HCBS Waiver.
SELF-DIRECTION An OPWDD funded service for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities enabling them to have control in making choices regarding their supports, services, and budget.
SERVICE AMENDMENT REQUEST FORM (SARF) A form to request additional services, increase number of services, or request a change in providers for a person receiving HCBS waiver services.
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION (SSA) Federal government agency that administers Social Security and Supplemental Security Income benefits.
SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY INSURANCE (SSDI) A Federal program providing payments to persons with disability who have contributed to social security for at least 10 years, regardless of current income and assets. Certain beneficiaries may qualify but must meet requirements.
SPECIAL EDUCATION INTINERANT TEACHER (SEIT) Provide specialized instruction or indirect services to preschool students with Individualized Education Programs. They travel to the setting where the child attends during the day.
STAFF ACTION PLAN (SAP) A written plan describing actions required to assist the person with IDD in achieving goals. Follows the Life Plan.
SUPPLEMENTAL NUTRITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM (SNAP) State-funded program to provide financial assistance for purchasing food. Administered by local departments of social services.
SUPPLEMENTAL SECURITY INCOME (SSI) A federal program that provides financial assistance for those with low income and who are older, blind, or disabled who would otherwise have a difficult time paying for food and shelter.
SUPPORT BROKER A New York State-trained professional who assists people with IDD who choose Self-Direction services.
SUPPORTED DECISION MAKING (SDM) A less restrictive alternative to guardianship that allows people with IDD to make decisions with the support of trusted persons.
SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT (SEMP) A program that helps people with disabilities find and keep jobs in the community.
TRACKING AND BILLING SERVICES IDENTIFICATION (TABS ID) A unique identification number assigned to a person receiving OPWDD services.
