If residential service and supports are needed for an individual, their assigned SSA will meet with the individual/team to assess the current needs and plan appropriate home and community-based supports. This could be in the form of remote technology that allows an individual to remain independent while still getting an appropriate level of supports. It might mean arranging hands-on assistance from a Homemaker Personal Care (HPC) worker for help with personal care, grocery shopping, budgeting, life skill development or general supervision anywhere from a few hours a month up to 24/7 care.
The supports are provided by either an agency (HPC) worker or an independent provider that is personally certified by DODD. All DODD certified providers must have background checks and receive annual required training. Every individual/guardian decides for themselves which certified providers they would like to work with. This ability to choose and steer services from a provider is known as an individual’s “Free Choice of Provider” and is an important aspect of self-determination.