Developmental Disabilities Waiver (Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver Program): This program is designed to provide services and supports that will allow eligible individuals with developmental disabilities to participate as active members of their communities. Developmental Disabilities Waiver is only one of several waivers available and the program serves as an alternative to institutional care. See: Human Services Division (Medical Assistance Bureau) or DDSD Regional Contact information.

What the Program Provides: The Developmental Disabilities Waiver program provides an array of residential, habilitation, employment, therapeutic and family support services.

Historical Information: Since the late 1970's there has been a national movement to provide services and supports to individuals with developmental disabilities in the community rather than in institutions. While there has been a significant shift to community-based care nationwide, New Mexico is the leader in this area. New Mexico is one of only 7 states that have closed large state facilities for people with developmental disabilities (See State of the States Web Site). As of July 1999, the DD Waiver program served nearly 2000 individuals, the majority of whom are adults. As of fiscal year 2004, the DD Waiver program saw an increase in public spending by 11.5 percent, while also increasing the number of individuals served to 3,286 (See DDSD Annual Report for current information).

Other information: A Medicaid Waiver is specifically designed to provide services reimbursable under Medicaid to a specific population who, in the absence of the Waiver, would require services in an institution. A combination of medical eligibility and financial eligibility determines an individual's eligibility for Waiver Programs. Also see: Performance Measures and Survey Results.

Return to Funds, Programs and Services

For more information navigate to:

The Process used to Determine Medical Eligibility
The Process used to Determine Financial Eligibility
The Central Registry and how data is collected
Future Initiatives