Services & Supports

Frequently Asked Questions & Answers

Q: I've never worked with a support coordinator; what do I need to know?

A: One of the first things to realize is the importance of having a good relationship with your support coordinator. That means you need to feel comfortable with your support coordinator and respect each other's opinions and perspectives. You should be able to talk and exchange ideas with one another, in an open and honest way. Initially it helps to give the support coordinator a chance to see and understand your loved one in his/her own environment, doing everyday activities.

To avoid misunderstandings, ask lots of questions, especially as you begin to work together. Make your expectations clear about the coordinator's availability, and be sure these are mutually agreed upon. Make it a point to discuss any problem when it arises, particularly if it is with a service provider. Unless a problem threatens your loved one's health or safety, be reasonably patient about its resolution. (Layers of bureaucracy may be involved and some changes take time.) On the other hand, do follow up till the desired outcome is reached.

Keep your support coordinator updated. If your loved one's needs change, tell the coordinator; don't wait till the next annual meeting. Don't let your support coordinator only hear from you with complaints. Compliments on a good effort are always welcome and help to keep your teamwork in balance. Speak up if something doesn't seem right. Don't be afraid to be assertive and contact the coordinator's supervisor if needed. Remember you're all part of the same team, advocating for what is best for your loved one.

While there is no surefire formula for success, the above points will help you develop a successful working relationship with your support coordinator.

Q: My son has Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease. He needs services that the Developmental Disabilities Program does not have. Is there somewhere else that I can find services for him?

A: Yes. The aging network may have some services appropriate for your son. Speak with your support coordinator about checking with senior centers and your local Area Agency on Aging for available services. The Department of Elder Affairs funds numerous programs around the state, through the 11 Florida Area Agencies. While some programs require a certain age for eligibility, others are less restrictive. You may even locate a senior center that has a supervised day care component for your son and active social programs that you might enjoy.

Q: Is the Medicaid Waiver Program the only funding source of services for people with developmental disabilities in Florida now?

A: No. Although the Medicaid Waiver Program is, by far, the largest source of services for people with developmental disabilities who live in the community and not in institutions, it is hardly the only one. Individuals who are able to live more independently in the community (perhaps in supported living) often use paid services or supports from other governmental entities. Special mortgages, vouchers for subsidized housing, food stamps and vocational rehabilitation are just a few examples of such services.

Q: My cousin applied for services for her adult daughter who has retardation and she was turned down. Is there any way she can appeal that decision?

A: Definitely. If the services she was requesting for her daughter are under the Medicaid Waiver (federal), she should request a "fair hearing." She should make this request in writing to the Developmental Services Program Administrator in her district or to the Office of Appeal Hearings in Tallahassee, no later than 90 days after the notice of the denial was sent. The first step in the process is a district review of the evidence, where the issue may be resolved. If it is not, the next step is a hearing conducted by an officer from the Office of Appeal Hearings. A decision will be made after all the evidence is presented.

If the requested services are funded through (state) general revenue dollars, she may request an "administrative hearing." This must be done within 21 days of receipt of the notice of denial. The first step may be a formal or an informal local hearing, where the facts of the case are discussed. If the issue is not resolved favorably, she may request a formal hearing by an officer from the Office of Appeal Hearings. This hearing will proceed much like the fair hearing described above. An unfavorable final order from either hearing may be appealed to the appropriate district court. Your cousin may obtain a brochure describing the hearing that is appropriate to her daughter's situation from any local district office.