Unlocking Disability Support: A Conversation with Developmental Pathways
SpecialEd, IEPs, 504s, Oh my! Conversations with DCSEAC · DCSEAC
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Show Notes
Developmental Pathways Explained: Medicaid Waivers, Disability Determination & Community Supports (DCSEAC Podcast) Host Aleia Mastroianni interviews Rachel Walker of Developmental Pathways, the case management agency for Arapahoe, Douglas, and Elbert Counties that helps families access early intervention, long-term care Medicaid services and waivers, and locally funded IDD supports across the lifespan. They explain when to reach out (anytime), how intake works (phone or faster online form), and why the process is lengthy but worth it for lifetime services beyond school. Rachel clarifies Colorado’s disability determination at age five, long-term care Medicaid eligibility based on the individual’s income, and options like ABLE accounts and special needs trusts. They overview the three pediatric waivers—Complex Health Needs (CHIN), CHRP for high behavioral needs and risk of out-of-home placement (now expanded to serious emotional disturbances), and CES requiring near 24/7 line-of-sight supervision—plus the new Community First Choice program (July 2025) offering attendant-based supports without a waiver. They also highlight Resource Coordination and the Family Support Services Program, and encourage families to start and stay engaged.
00:00 Welcome and Topic
00:40 Meet Developmental Pathways
05:29 When to Reach Out
08:36 Planning for the Future
10:18 Disability Determination
15:38 Pediatric Waivers Overview
22:28 Community First Choice
26:06 Other Funding Programs
28:13 Overwhelm and Encouragement
32:12 First Steps to Start
34:06 Closing and Takeaways
Developmental Pathways Website
Developmental Pathways Online Intake Form
https://app.smartsheet.com/b/form/234b31539c3740eb95935995e6d59fe1
Policy Pulse - DP Blog
https://www.dpcolo.org/category/developmental-pathways-news/