Guide on becoming a Habilitation Services provider in Maine 


1. Program Definition and Services 

Habilitation Services are defined as health care services that help a person keep, learn, or improve skills and functioning for daily living. These services may include: 

  • Physical therapy 
  • Occupational therapy 
  • Speech-language pathology 
  • Other services for people with disabilities 
  • Day programs 
  • Supported employment 
  • Job coaching 
  • Transportation 
  • Recreational and leisure services 
  • Respite care 

 

2. Regulations 

Habilitation Services in Maine are governed by: 

  • Title 34-B, §5609 of Maine Statutes 
  • MaineCare Benefits Manual, specifically Chapter II, Sections 18, 20, 21, and 29 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be approved by the Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) to offer Habilitation Services. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is responsible for approving Habilitation Services providers. 

 

5. Application Process 

Providers must submit an application and supporting documentation to a Designated Representative of DHHS for review and approval. The application process is conducted via email. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers need to submit: 

  • Completed application form (signed and dated) 
  • Evidence of management competency and experience in health or human service settings 
  • Proof of good standing of licensure or certification 
  • Documentation demonstrating compliance with DHHS expectations in areas such as organization, operation, personnel administration, environment and safety, and quality management 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not provided in the available results. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no formal pre-application process mentioned. However, potential providers should review the requirements and ensure they can meet DHHS expectations before applying. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No specific pre-application training requirements are mentioned in the provided results. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Providers must specify the services they propose to deliver, referencing the Covered Services portion of the relevant MaineCare Benefits Manual sections 
  • Priority for services is given to individuals between 20 and 26 years of age who are living at home or in unsubsidized foster care and are not receiving any day program 
  • Habilitation services are provided to the extent of available resources 
  • Providers must comply with the state's Global HCBS Waiver Person-Centered Planning and Settings Rule, which became effective on January 19, 2022 

 

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