At IDDI we want to make the Admissions process as stress-free and comprehensive as possible. With an open admissions policy in place throughout the year for our Children's Program, referrals are accepted from parents, clinicians, local education authorities, and state agencies whose responsibilities include appropriate education and treatment planning.
For our Adult Program, there are currently two methods of referral:
Internal
When a vacancy exists within one of IDDI’s eleven adult residential homes, the Children’s Program will make referrals to the Director of Adult Services for individuals who have reached, or are approaching, the age of twenty-two.
External
The DMR area offices or other state agencies supporting individuals with developmental disabilities maintain a list of potential referrals and may directly refer an individual for placement.
- Once a referral is made, the Director of Adult Services, Director of Residential Services, Administrator of A.B.L.E. and the RN Supervisor meet to review individual needs, preferences, and overall history. The initial process may also include a meeting with the individual; family members and guardians; Children’s Program Case Manager; DMR Service Coordinator or other state agency representative, as appropriate. The team determines if any existing or anticipated vacancy is an appropriate placement that will meet the primary needs of the individual
- If the individual is accepted, then s/he meets other residents and staff of the new program over a series of pre-established meetings. This is the transition period. Families and guardians are encouraged to be involved
- Room assignment is primarily based on availability. Individual preferences, compatibility and choice are always considered and acted on whenever possible. Individuals are encouraged to decorate and personalize their space. The safety, health and clinical well-being of all individuals are priorities that may outweigh preferences in some cases.
The following is a summary of our admissions process for the Children's Program:
- Once a referral is received, a multidisciplinary team reviews medical and psychological reports and school information to determine if a student's needs can be met and best served at IDDI.
- Our intake team consists of a specialist from each of our Service disciplines: Educational, Medical, Clinical, Adaptive and Therapeutic, and Residential. If a student is determined appropriate, an intake interview and evaluation meeting is scheduled.
- Parents/guardians meet with the team to evaluate and exchange information on the potential student. If s/he is appropriate, a classroom, and residence are targeted.
- A letter of acceptance is sent to the family with a copy forwarded to the school department or agency. If all parties are in agreement, an admission date is set.
- An application packet is mailed to the family.
- An Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meeting is scheduled with the school department.
- Contract and placement agreements are sent to the school department.
- Transition visits are scheduled.
- A pre-admission meeting is held for IDDI staff a week before admission.
For more information on the admissions process, to arrange a tour of our facilities, or to schedule an informational meeting, contact the Admissions Director, Cheryl Tsimprea-Andrade at 508-644-3101, ext. 3375, or email ctsimprea-andrade@iddicommunity.org.