The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) is a great resource for finding out what classes and certifications you have to have before completing the online application to become a Certified Independent Provider – but what else should you consider before deciding if it is right for you?

Please note, for best experience, we strongly recommend using a computer to view and complete this process.

1. Computer Skills

• Nearly every aspect of being an Independent Provider will involve using the computer (applications, billing, communication, training, service plans).
• All official communication with DODD will be via email
• You’ll need to be comfortable using a computer and email.

2. Self-Employment

• You are not employed by DODD or the County Board.

• You’ll be your own boss — responsible for taxes, healthcare, record-keeping, and staying up to date with state laws and rules (which are revised at least every 3 years).

3. Patience with the Process

• Certification takes at least 1–2 months (in some cases, up to a year).

• You’ll need to complete training, gather documents, pay fees, and pass a background check.

• Once you are certified, you may have to wait to find a person to support and become authorized to provide this support.

• Payments can take weeks to process once you begin working (as the claims are processed through a combination of DODD and Medicaid).
• *Keep in mind that any changes to an individual’s plan will freeze any billing until those changes are finalized.

4. Do Your Homework

• Learn how the DD system works — it’s different from mental health or physical disability services.

• Summit DD has two office locations in Summit County (Barberton and Cuyahoga Falls) and is governed by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, which is located in Columbus. The two agencies are related, but not the same agency.
• Most people you’ll support live in their own homes with a waiver, not in group homes. You will assist the person to live life how he/she wants to live it — not the other way around.

5. Finding People to Support

• If you’re serving a family member or friend, you still must follow all the rules. Family members are not exempt from any of the rules or regulations that an unrelated provider would be. In order to be paid for your services, you need to adhere to all rules and laws governing service provision.

• If you’re not, you’ll need to market yourself. Summit DD does not assign providers. Individuals and families choose their own providers (This is known as “Free Choice of Provider“). Keep in mind there are many providers in Summit County, and we cannot guarantee you will be selected to work with someone.

• Summit DD works to identify what supports an individual needs and then outlines these needs in a confidential online forum. It is up to you to respond to them and let them know why they should pick you.

6. Explore Your Options

• Are you still interested? Then, go for it! People with developmental disabilities need caring, responsible, outgoing people to help them live, work and play in the community. We are eager to support you to be the best provider you can be!

• If being fully independent feels overwhelming, you can work for an agency provider instead. Agency providers all over the county are looking for people like you RIGHT now. Check out www.dspohio.org for opportunities.

Click here to Download/print a copy of  What to know before becoming an IP

Click for required documentation before applying