Overview

Difference between the County Board and DODD

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) oversees a statewide system of supportive services that focus on ensuring health and safety, supporting access to community participation, and increasing opportunities for meaningful employment for those individuals who meet eligibility guidelines.

Ohio's county boards of developmental disabilities provide assessment, service planning, and coordination to adults and children with developmental disabilities, as well as oversight and assistance to service providers. The Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities Services is one of 88 county boards who administer Home and Community-Based Services waivers.

To get a better picture of DODD's responsibilities, you can watch the following video.

Types of Waivers

Waivers are one way to pay for services that support someone with developmental disabilities living on their own, with family, with a roommate, or with a provider through Ohio Shared Living. Person-centered services that are available through a home and community-based services waiver can help meet a person's needs. All waiver services provided to a person must be medically necessary. For all services, a person with developmental disabilities and their team will use the free choice of provider process to select a direct support professional. 

The department administers three different waivers: the Individual Options Waiver, the Level One Waiver, and Self-Empowered Life Funding Waiver. 

Services For Which You Can Become Certified

Services vary by type of waiver and provider type requirements. Independent Providers may choose to pursue certification in areas identified by DODD certification rules.

  • The Individual Options Waiver is often called the IO Waiver. The IO Waiver is a more comprehensive waiver. It can be a good fit for people who may need a lot of help in their home, or for people who need many different kinds of services. For details, visit the DODD website.

  • The Level One Waiver relies heavily on natural supports. Natural supports are services people provide without being paid for it. Natural supports could be things like
    • support from a family member who helps you get dressed and ready for work every morning,
    • a ride to work from a coworker,
    • or a family member who provides a break or respite for caregivers.
  • The Self-Empowered Life Funding Waiver is usually called the SELF Waiver. The SELF Waiver is good fit for people who want to be in charge of some of their services. If you have a SELF Waiver, you can be in charge of hiring and training the people who provide your services. You can manage your budget for the services you want.  

Have more questions?

Please consult our Frequently Asked Questions guide.