(May 1, 2011) Thanks to previous increases in funding from the Governor and ARRA sources, DORS was able to provide services to more individuals. As a result of this expansion, the number of individuals currently receiving services now exceeds 11,000.
Unfortunately, we have not been able to increase the number of DORS staff, so our wait list for Category 2, (Significantly Disabled) consumers is increasing.
Currently, we have over 2,500 people on our waitlist.
How DORS decides who gets services first
Federal law says that DORS must serve people with the most significant disabilities first. To comply with this law, DORS counselors determine the severity of the disability of individuals who are eligible for services, as follows:
• If you are eligible for services and have a “most significant disability,” (Category 1) you can begin your rehabilitation program without delay.
• If you are eligible for services and have a “significant disability,” (Category 2) you will be placed on a waiting list for approximately 6 to 9 months.
DORS does not expect to provide services to eligible individuals with “non-severe” disabilities (Category 3) in the foreseeable future.
If you need services
All consumers who are interested in DORS services should still apply so that we can decide if you meet the eligibility requirements. We will then also determine if you have a “most significant,” “significant” or “non-severe” disability.
If DORS finds that you are eligible for services and have a most significant disability, your DORS counselor will work with you to develop your Individualized Plan for Employment and begin services.
If you are eligible for services and have a “significant” disability, DORS will put your name on the waiting list and notify you when you can begin to develop your Individualized Plan for Employment and receive services. Your DORS counselor will discuss some limited services such as guidance, counseling and some assessments which DORS may provide while you are on the waiting list.
Solutions
We will continue to work with community, state and federal partners to explore all possible ways to increase funding and reduce the waiting list further.