Issue 11 | October 2026

Announcements

Training for Providers: Handbook for Claim and Service Documentation

The Office of Developmental Programs will host a training on updated claim and service documentation requirements on November 20, from 9–11 am. 

Providers will review Bulletin 00-26-04, including new requirements effective January 1, 2027. The session will be recorded and made available on MyODP for providers to access following training.

Registration for Provider Training 

ODP Releases Updated Gold Book: A Guide to Intellectual Disability and Autism Services

The Pennsylvania Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) has released the fourth edition of the Gold Book, Understanding the Office of Developmental Programs. 

This updated resource provides individuals, families, caregivers, and professionals with valuable information about Pennsylvania’s intellectual disability and autism services, available supports, and resources to help navigate the service system.

Gold Book Fourth Edition

ODP Releases Updated Participant-Directed Services Guidance

The Office of Developmental Programs has issued updated guidance following the Dunkelberger v. Department of Human Services court decision. The announcement includes additional information for participants using self-directed services, including updated requirements and timelines for Common Law Employer and Managing Employer agreements. 

Supports Brokers and individuals using participant-directed services are encouraged to review the announcement and accompanying FAQ.

ODP Announcement 26-067 and Updated FAQ 

Supporting Independence Through Technology

Technology can give people greater choice and control over their lives. Arc Human Services’ Smart Home Lab helps Pennsylvanians with intellectual disabilities and autism explore tools that support independence at home and in the communities, showing how innovation and self-direction can help people live life on their own terms.

Read More about Independence Through Technology

Resources

2027 National Self-Direction Conference

The Self-Direction Center will host the 2027 National Self-Direction Conference, May 11–13, in Atlanta, Georgia. This event brings together individuals, families, advocates, and professionals to explore best practices, share resources, and advance self-direction. 

Attendees will have opportunities to learn, network, and promote greater choice, independence, and community inclusion.

National Self-Direction Conference 

PA ABLE Savings Program

The PA ABLE Savings Program helps Pennsylvanians with qualifying disabilities save for disability-related expenses without jeopardizing important means-tested benefits. 

Administered by the Pennsylvania Treasury Department, PA ABLE offers tax-advantaged savings, flexible investment options, and tools that support greater financial independence. Visit the website to explore eligibility requirements, account benefits, educational webinars, and other helpful resources.

PA ABLE Program 

Tool Spotlight: Integrated Supports Split Star

The Integrated Supports Split Star, part of the Charting the LifeCourse framework, is a practical tool for exploring the supports that help people live the life they choose. 

It looks beyond paid services to identify personal strengths, relationships, community resources, technology, and eligibility-based supports. For people using Self-Direction, Split Star can help identify existing resources, uncover support gaps, and spark conversations about creative ways to build a stronger, more flexible network of support.

Integrated Supports Split Star: More Information and Downloads

Upcoming Events

• Friday, November 20, 2026, 9 am – 11 am
  Training for Providers - Handbook for Claim and Service Documentation
• Wednesday, November 18, 2026, 4 pm
  Supports Broker Network Monthly Meeting
• December 8, 2026, 9 am to 4:30 pm
  Supports Broker Recertification
• Wednesday, January 20, 2027, at 4 pm
  Supports Broker Network Monthly Meeting