Sec. 10.22.12.11. Initiation of Services

A. Initiation of service delivery to an eligible individual seeking DDA-funded services shall be dependent upon:

(1) Assigned service priority, except for family support services and low intensity support services which are provided on a first-come, first-served basis;

(2) Availability and allocation of funds provided to the DDA;

(3) Availability of an appropriate community vacancy; and

(4) The individual's completing an application for Medical Assistance or other alternative funding.

B. Emergency Situations.

(1) If an emergency situation arises and immediate services are needed to resolve a crisis, the regional director may telephone the Director or the Director's designee to authorize the initiation of services for a maximum of 15 calendar days, provided that an:

(a) Evaluation pursuant to Regulation .10B(2) is performed to confirm eligibility within 10 calendar days of the initiation of services. If the individual cannot afford evaluation services, the State shall arrange for them.

(b) Application for services is processed pursuant to Regulation .04C and approved by the Director pursuant to Regulation .10.

(2) If the Director or the Director's designee cannot be reached, the regional director may authorize services provided that the approval is obtained on the next working day.

C. Ninety days after the receipt of services, the service needs and priority status of an individual shall be reviewed by the regional director or the regional director's designee, and adjusted if indicated. If the service meets the needs of the individual, the individual's name shall be removed from the waiting list for that service.

D. Any time after the receipt of services, an eligible individual may:

(1) Apply for or request a change in intensity of services or support, or apply for additional services;

(2) Request a less intensive form of that service, and may receive the less intensive service if it is available.

E. Individuals assigned to Category I who enter a State residential center because needed community services are not available or will not be available within a reasonable time, shall retain their eligibility and priority status for community services for 12 months after the date they enter the SRC.

F. Except in an emergency situation or a case approved by the Director because of extenuating circumstances, DDA may not fund services for individuals with State-only dollars unless the individual has been denied:

(1) Medical Assistance including waiver services; and

(2) Related alternative funding.