Waiver ServicesThe Department of Health and Hospitals' Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) is charged with coordinating statewide services in a manner that is accessible to Louisiana individuals and families who require specialized supports and services. The OCDD is entrusted with the task of determining eligibility and assuring that these individuals can safely be served in the community
OCDD is also entrusted in assuring that individuals are afforded the opportunity to live in a safe environment while directing their lives based on their desired personal outcomes. Supports and services are provided as a supplement to natural supports while supporting dignity, quality of life, and security in the everyday lives of people.
The Department of Health and Hospitals Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities offers community-based services and supports for people who are disabled through the Medicaid Home and Community-based Waiver programs. These waiver programs allow Louisiana citizens to have greater flexibility to choose where they want to live, and the waiver services and supports that best suit their needs, while still receiving Medicaid State Plan benefits.
Types of home and community-based waivers currently available include New Opportunities Waiver and Children's Choice. Each waiver has specific service packages and eligibility requirements. Waiver opportunities are dependent upon funding, and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis through the Request for Services Registry. To apply for services, contact your regional office/district/authority.
As partners in our communities, OCDD provides leadership in the development of community-based programs that enhance inclusion, independence, dignity, choice, and individual well-being through person-centered approaches and personal outcomes.
In a world of rapidly changing health care delivery and financing systems, it is our continuing goal to develop a system that meets individuals' needs, and ensures quality and value for Louisiana citizens who choose to receive services in their community.
OCDD will focus on achieving these goals by listening; supporting quality, person-centered services; promoting accountability and cost-effective resources that effectively contribute to addressing the personal needs and dreams of people with disabilities; and partnering with self-advocates, families, service providers, and others.
These goals are ambitious and cannot be achieved overnight, but we are committed to developing a system where customers are satisfied, services are accountable, and which meets the expectations of the customers within the confines of state and federal requirements.
If you are unable to locate services that you need, please call the OCDD Central Office at 225-342-0095 or email us at ocddinfo@la.gov.
Waiver Services Questions
