Service Models

Comprehensive Massachusetts DDS Support Programs

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Day Habilitation

Day Hab programs are facility-based and provide therapeutic and developmental services to adults with disabilities. Services typically include nursing, speech, occupational and physical therapy, and social development supports. DDS and MassHealth eligibility is required.

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Community-Based Day Supports (CBDS)

CBDS programs support individuals in accessing volunteer work, education, and community-based enrichment. Less clinically intensive than Day Hab, CBDS emphasizes choice, skill-building, and inclusion.

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Transportation & PT-1

Transportation is often available to and from Day Hab via MassHealth PT-1 authorization. CBDS typically requires family transportation or provider vans. Discuss options with your care manager or program representative.

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ABA & Clinical Services

Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) and BCBA-driven supports may be available in adult programs. This is more common in Day Hab and residential settings. These services focus on reducing behaviors and teaching life skills through evidence-based methods.

Brief Overview of Services

Day Habilitation (DH) Programs

MassHealth and DDS Compliance

Day Habilitation programs must adhere to MassHealth regulations (130 CMR 419.000) and coordinate with DDS.

  • Compliance with caregiver background checks (Nicky's Law).
  • Programs operate at least 5 days/week, 6 hours/day.
  • Maintain accreditation (CARF/CQL).
  • Robust documentation required (6-year retention minimum).

Staffing Requirements and Training

  • Required: Program Director, Health Care Supervisor (RN), Developmental Specialists, Therapists, Behavioral Professionals.
  • Annual training: Abuse reporting, CPR, First Aid, infection control, human rights, HIPAA.
  • Background checks: CORI, SORI, OIG exclusion, DDS abuser registry.

Compliance, Audits, and Recordkeeping

  • Periodic audits by MassHealth and DDS.
  • Documentation includes attendance, DHSP, SNA, incidents, and transportation logs.
  • Non-compliance risks repayment or termination.

Community-Based Day Supports (CBDS)

Program Eligibility and Guidelines

  • Eligibility: Adults (22+) with DDS-approved intellectual/developmental disabilities.
  • Community integration emphasized: volunteering, social skills, employment pathways.
  • Programs must operate separately from Day Habilitation.

DDS Contracts and Provider Obligations

  • DDS licensed/certified providers; regular DDS reviews and audits.
  • Develop individualized community participation and employment plans.
  • Maintain safe staff-to-client ratios (typically 1:7 or fewer).

Community Integration and Employment Pathways

  • Activities promote employment-first policy: internships, volunteer work, job skills training.
  • Employment outcomes measured by DDS.

Transportation Contracts and Requirements

MassHealth PT-1 Approvals and Funding

  • PT-1 form required for all MassHealth-funded transport, authorized by healthcare provider.
  • Transportation coordinated through regional brokers (e.g., MART).
  • Annual PT-1 renewal required.

DDS Transportation Guidelines

  • DDS may separately fund transportation; providers must comply with vehicle safety and driver standards.
  • Drivers: CORI, SORI, DPPC screening; CPR and First Aid certified.
  • Training in disability support, wheelchair securement, mandated reporting required.

Billing, Audit Guidelines, and Safety Compliance

  • Maintain detailed records: trip logs, attendance, PT-1 approvals.
  • Transportation audits cross-reference attendance and billing records.
  • Providers must document incidents and adhere strictly to safety standards.

Need Help Getting Started?

Contact your DDS care manager or reach out to program representatives to discuss which services best meet your individual needs and eligibility requirements.