How do I become certified to provide services?

All certification to become a service provider is obtained through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). Information on becoming a provider is available in the Providers section of the DODD website. The application for certification can be completed electronically through the DODD Provider Certification Wizard.

What qualifications do I have to have to become a certified provider?

Detailed general requirements are provided in Ohio Administrative Code (OAC) 5123:2-2-01.

Applicants must be

• eighteen years of age or older,
• have a valid social security number and
• hold a high school diploma or GED.

Applicants must have

• current valid CPR and
• First Aid certification.

Applicants must also obtain

• a report from the bureau of criminal identification and investigation (BCII) which demonstrates that he/she has not been convicted of or pleaded guilty to any disqualifying offense. A list of disqualifying offenses is part of OAC 5123:2-2-02. Applicants must be able to read, write and understand English at a level sufficient to comply with all rule (OAC) requirements.

Service specific requirements are detailed in Ohio Administrative Codes 5123:2-9-14 through 5123:2-9-38.

Are there classes I need to take?

Web-based DODD orientation plus eight (8) hours of initial training is required. The eight (8) hours of training must include

• Overview of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities including implementation of individual service plans;
• Roles and responsibilities with regard to service including person-centered planning,
• community integration,
• self-determination and self-advocacy;
• Rights of individuals;
• Universal precautions;
• Incidents adversely affecting health and safety (Major Unusual Incidents) including Health and Safety Alerts.

Where do I get training?

Training is available online through various resources. One resource for training is the Ohio Association of County Boards of DD or OACB. To request additional training resources contact us.

How long will it take to get certified?

Certification can take anywhere from six weeks to six months. Be sure that all forms are completely filled out. Submitting an application that is not complete can slow down the process considerably. It is recommended that applicants work with Summit DD staff throughout the application process to ensure that applications are complete. Please contact us to request assistance.

How long will it take to get a client?

It’s important to remember that Summit DD does not match providers to clients. Rather, each individual has the right to choose the provider of their choice who meets their needs, or “free choice of provider”. Free choice of provider is mandated by OAC 5123:2-9-11. Once certified, providers will have to notify Summit DD to receive instructions about how to get access to the Summit DD’s web based referral portal. Through this portal, providers must make it known when they are willing to serve based on the individual needs posted. Persons served, with the help of their support team, will choose who they would like to interview and ultimately who they would like to provide their services.

What does it pay?

Rates for services are determined by the DODD, based on the cost of doing business in each county. These rates can be found in appendixes of 5123:2-9-14 through 5123:2-9-38 of the DODD website.

Which services should I apply to provide?

Each applicant for certification must decide for themselves what they are qualified and interested in providing. All certifiable services are defined in OAC 5123:2-9-14 through 5123:2-9-38.

Can I open a group home?

No. Ohio Administrative Code prohibits providers of services to persons with developmental disabilities from being both the homeowner/landlord AND the provider of services. Agencies cannot profit from rent or room and board and the provision of services.

Can I serve someone in my own home?

Services can be provided in any number of locations, including but not limited to: your home, the home of the person receiving services or at a community location.

Can I serve DODD clients if I am certified as a Home Health Provider?

No. Providers of services to persons served by DODD have to be certified as DODD providers. There is no reciprocity between Medicaid funded departments. Being certified through the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, the Ohio Department of Medicaid, or the Area Agency on Aging does not equate to the DODD certifications. Each department has its own requirements.

Can my staff serve their family member or relative?

Yes. As a DODD certified provider you can serve any individual that has been deemed eligible for County Board services. Family members can be employed by an agency to provide services for their relatives. Note: Parents cannot provide paid services to their own children under the age of 18.

Have questions about Agency Provider Certification? Check out out Agency Provider Certification FAQs.

Have another question? Contact us.