Developmental Pathways' Intake and Eligibility Process
Eligibility
In order to access Developmental Pathways programs, an individual must first be determined to be developmentally disabled. This determination is made by Developmental Pathways during the intake and eligibility process. Please note there is a separate process for Early Intervention Services.
Developmental disability is defined in the Colorado Department of Human Services Rule, 2 CCR 503-1, section 16.120 as follows:
"Developmental disability" means a disability that is manifested before the person reaches twenty-two years of age, which constitutes a substantial disability to the affected individual, and is attributable to mental retardation or related conditions which include cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or other neurological conditions when such conditions result in impairment of general intellectual functioning or adaptive behavior similar to that of a person with mental retardation. Unless otherwise specifically stated, the federal definition of "developmental disability" found in 42 U.S.C. sec. 15001 et seq. shall not apply.
- Impairment of general intellectual functioning means that the person has been determined to have an intellectual quotient equivalent which is two or more standard deviations below the mean (70 or less assuming a scale with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15), as measured by an instrument which is standardized, appropriate to the nature of the person's disability, and administered by a qualified professional. The standard error of measurement of the instrument should be considered when determining the intellectual quotient equivalent. When an individual's general intellectual functioning cannot be measured by a standardized instrument, then the assessment of a qualified professional shall be used.
- “Adaptive behavior similar to that of a person with mental retardation” means that the person has overall adaptive behavior which is two or more standard deviations below the mean in two or more skill areas (communication, self-care, home living, social skills, community use, self-direction, health and safety, functional academics, leisure, and work), as measured by an instrument which is standardized, appropriate to the person's living environment, and administered and clinically determined by a qualified professional. These adaptive behavior limitations are a direct result of, or are significantly influenced by, the person’s substantial intellectual deficits and may not be attributable to only a physical or sensory impairment or mental illness.
- “Substantial intellectual deficits” means an intellectual quotient that is between 71 and 75 assuming a scale with a mean of 100 and a standard deviation of 15, as measured by an instrument which is standardized, appropriate to the nature of the person’s disability, and administered by a qualified professional. The standard error of measurement of the instrument should be considered when determining the intellectual quotient equivalent.
Intake
Step 1, Referral
Referrals for developmental disability services with Developmental Pathways come from a variety of sources including schools, doctors, agencies, friends, neighbors, family, self-referral or walk-ins. Contact a Developmental Pathways Intake Coordinator at, 303-858-2260.
Step 2, Contact with Intake Coordinator
After receiving a referral, a Developmental Pathways Intake Coordinator will contact you and talk with you about your needs, your services and eligibility for Developmental Pathways' programs. If you feel you will not meet the eligibility requirements the Intake Coordinator can refer you to appropriate resources or options to meet your needs. If you decide that you would like to apply for Developmental Pathways services, you will need to complete a packet to determine eligibility.
Step 3, Application to Determine Eligibility
The Intake Coordinator will set up a face-to-face meeting with you to complete an application packet. The packet includes information such as medical history, family information, and current supports. There are also Release of Information forms that will allow the Intake Coordinator to gather information to determine eligibility. The Intake Coordinator will also develop an Individual Plan, which will give a global picture of the applicant including long term goals, needs and desired services and supports during this meeting.
Step 4, Eligibility
The Intake Coordinator will gather and review information with your application to determine eligibility. In most cases, the Intake Coordinator is able to gather pertinent information to make a clear decision on eligibility. In other cases, the Eligibility Review Committee reviews the information. If you are found not eligible you will be notified of this decision, given further recommendations and an explanation of your right to appeal the decision. If you are eligible for services, you will be notified and placed on a waiting list.