DDD Evaluation
One of the more common referrals I receive is for individuals pursuing disability benefits through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). In order to qualify for disability benefits through DDD…
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The individual must have a qualifying disability (e.g., autism, cognitive/intellectual disability, epilepsy, and/or cerebral palsy);
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The disability must have had to manifest prior to the age of 18;
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And the disability must result in at least 3 of 7 substantial functional limitations (SFLs).
Qualifying Disability: The Department requires the diagnosis for autism and cognitive/intellectual disabilities come from a provider such as a licensed psychologist. However, the allegations (as DDD refers to the qualifying disabilities) for epilepsy and cerebral palsy must come from a medical doctor (which Dr. Andersen is not – Dr. Andersen is a licensed psychologist). Dr. Andersen has been in the field of school psychologist for over 13 years and is proficient at evaluating and diagnosing autism and cognitive/intellectual disability.
Manifest Prior to the Age of 18: The Department is clear that the disability must be apparent and have a substantially limiting effect on an individual’s functioning before the age of 18. In addition, the disability is likely to continue indefinitely.
The disability results in at least 3 of 7 Substantial Functional Limitations (SFLs).
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Self-Care
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Receptive and Expressive Language
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Learning
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Mobility
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Self-Direction
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Capacity for Independent Living
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Economic Self-Sufficiency