What is DDA

The Developmental Disabilities Administration provides a coordinated service delivery system so that individuals with developmental disabilities receive appropriate services oriented toward the goal of integration into the community. These services are provided through a combination of four state residential centers (providing services to individuals with mental retardation) and a wide array of community based services delivered primarily through a network of non-profit providers.

DDA's Vision

The Developmental Disabilities Administration takes the leadership role in building partnerships and trust with families, providers, local and state agencies, and advocates to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families have access to the resources necessary to foster growth, including those available to the general public. Because of our inherent belief in the rights and dignity of the individual, we are committed to:

• The empowerment of all individuals with developmental disabilities and their families to choose the services and supports that meet their needs.
• The integration of individuals with developmental disabilities into community life to foster participation.
• The provision of quality supports, based on consumer satisfaction, that maximizes individual growth and development.
• The establishment of a fiscally responsible, flexible service system that makes the best use of the resources that the citizens of Maryland have allocated for serving individuals with developmental disabilities.

Eligibility

An individual is eligible for a full range of services if he/she has a severe chronic disability that:

• Is attributed to a physical or mental impairment, other than the sole diagnosis of mental illness, or to a combination of mental and physical impairments;
• Is manifested before the individual attains the age of 22;
• Is likely to continue indefinitely;
• results in the inability to live independently without external support or continuing and regular assistance;
• Reflects the need for a combination and sequence of special, interdisciplinary, or generic care, treatment, or other services that are planned and coordinated for that individual.

(Health General 7-101[e])

An individual is eligible only for support services if he/she has a severe chronic disability that:

• Is attributed to physical or mental impairment, other than the sole diagnosis of mental illness, or to a combination of mental and physical impairments.
• Is likely to continue indefinitely.

(Health General 7-403[c])

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