California’s Self-Determination Program (SDP) has transformed the way many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities go about receiving essential services. As this program is still fairly new, many people have questions about California’s SDP. If you’re wondering whether or not it might be advantageous for you or a loved one, keep reading to gain important insights.
Learn more about commonly asked questions from SDP participants below.
The California Self-Determination Program is a dynamic new way for Regional Center customers to select vendors and services that help them meet their goals.
In the past, people with disabilities relied on one of the 21 Regional Centers to provide needed services and implement the steps in their Individual Program Plan (IPP). Today, the SDP empowers individuals and their circle of support to choose their own services based on a tailored budget.
Ultimately, the SDP aims to allow Regional Center customers as much independence as possible. Those with developmental disabilities, according to the principle of self-determination, should have agency. That means they should choose their own care and lay the bricks for their own future, just like anyone else.
The Self-Determination Program in California is one of two ways for Regional Center customers to receive services. The other method allows the state to decide which services certain participants qualify for and arrange for their implementation.
People who are eligible for Regional Center services under California’s Lanterman Act may engage with the state’s Self-Determination Program. Generally, someone of any age with a developmental disability (as defined by state law) is eligible. The disability must be substantial, meaning it impairs at least three areas of life set forth by state statute. Conditions that often meet this criteria include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, and autism.
SDP users must also be living in the community and not in some type of extended care facility. This requirement can be waived if the Regional Center customer agrees to leave the facility within 90 days of the request.
One of the few requirements for SDP participants is using a financial management service. This entity is certified to oversee the disbursement of funds from an SDP budget (more on that below) to service providers.
Different types of financial management services can handle various accounting tasks related to Regional Center services. Your FMS provider may send out paychecks (if participants hire employees) and withhold taxes as required by state and federal law.
Receiving a budget from a Self-Determination Program Regional Center is one of the most important parts of the SDP, as it gives customers and their support circles a framework from which to choose services. The budget aims to cover services needed for the next 12 months and is largely based on the expenses incurred during the previous 12 months.
SDP participants must choose from state-approved vendors. If a participant’s needs change, the team that facilitated the IPP and budget can make periodic adjustments. Participants may also start a formal appeals process if they are not satisfied with their team's budget.
A Self-Determination Program independent facilitator can navigate participants through the SDP process. This person or entity can recognize participants’ needs, contribute to the person-centered plan, find and hire service providers, and advocate for participants in general. You can pay for your independent facilitator out of your annual budget.
NeuroNav offers independent facilitation services for families either looking to get into the SDP or wanting a responsible entity to maintain support for their loved one. Our caring team puts our clients’ needs first so they can get the most out of these essential services. Contact us soon to set up a free consultation.