The Local Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Authority (LIDDA) is specific to Texas. It is a regional entity designated by the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to serve as the primary point of contact for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) seeking services and support.
Purpose of a LIDDA:
The LIDDA system exists to ensure that individuals with IDD have access to appropriate services in their local communities. Each LIDDA is responsible for providing or coordinating a range of services to meet the unique needs of individuals and families within its service area.
Key Responsibilities of LIDDAs:
- Eligibility Determination:
- Conduct assessments to determine eligibility for IDD services, including Medicaid waivers like Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) or Texas Home Living (TxHmL).
- Evaluate the individual’s level of care needs, often using tools like the Inventory for Client and Agency Planning (ICAP).
- Service Coordination and Planning:
- Develop an Individual Plan of Care (IPC) or a Person-Directed Plan (PDP) for eligible individuals.
- Coordinate services and resources, including medical, therapeutic, and social supports.
- Access to Medicaid Waivers and Services:
- Manage interest lists (commonly called “waitlists”) for Medicaid waiver programs, such as HCS and TxHmL.
- Provide access to crisis intervention, behavioral health supports, and respite care.
- Community Living Services:
- Support individuals in transitioning from institutional settings (e.g., State Supported Living Centers) to community-based living arrangements.
- Facilitate housing options such as group homes, foster care, or supported independent living.
- Crisis and Emergency Assistance:
- Offer 24/7 crisis response services for individuals experiencing behavioral or psychiatric emergencies.
- Advocacy and Education:
- Help individuals and families navigate available resources and advocate for their rights.
- Provide education on IDD-related topics, including guardianship, benefits, and employment opportunities.
- Quality Assurance:
- Monitor the quality of services delivered by contracted providers within their network.
Examples of Services Provided or Coordinated by LIDDAs:
- Service coordination and case management.
- Behavioral support and crisis intervention.
- Day habilitation and vocational training.
- Support for employment or community integration.
- Transition services for individuals aging out of school-based supports.
Coverage and Structure:
There are 39 LIDDAs across Texas, each responsible for a specific geographical area. Each authority operates within a particular region and may also serve as a mental health authority, depending on its designation.
Importance of LIDDAs:
LIDDAs play a crucial role in helping individuals with IDD access services tailored to their needs, promoting independence, community inclusion, and an enhanced quality of life. They act as the bridge between individuals, families, and the complex system of state and local resources.
If you’re in Texas and need support, contacting the LIDDA in your area is the first step to accessing IDD services.