1. Program Definition and Services 

Day Program Services in Maryland provide structured, community-based programs designed to support individuals with disabilities, seniors, or those with medical conditions. These programs aim to enhance participants' quality of life through skill-building, socialization, and therapeutic activities. Services include: 

• Recreational therapy (e.g., arts, music, exercise) 

• Assistance with daily living skills 

• Health monitoring and medication administration 

• Rehabilitation therapies (physical, occupational, speech) 

• Social work services and community resource referrals 

• Nutritious meals and snacks 

• Transportation to and from the program site 

Day programs may also include specialized services such as psychiatric rehabilitation or medical day care for individuals with complex health needs. 

2. Regulations 

Day Program Services in Maryland are governed by the following regulations: 

• COMAR 10.22.12 and 10.22.13 (Day Habilitation Services) 

• COMAR 10.12.04 (Medical Day Care Services for Elderly and Adults with Disabilities) 

• COMAR 10.09.26 (Licensing Requirements for Day Habilitation and Supported Employment) 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must obtain a license to operate Day Program Services in Maryland: 

• Day Habilitation Services: Licensed under COMAR 10.22.12 or 10.22.13 by the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). 

• Medical Day Care Services: Licensed under COMAR 10.12.04 by the Maryland Department of Health's Office of Health Care Quality. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maryland Department of Health oversees Day Program Services through the following offices: 

• Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA): For day habilitation services. 

• Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ): For medical day care services. 

5. Application Process 

The application process varies depending on the type of day program: 

• Day Habilitation Services: 

• Submit an application to the DDA. 

• Include all required documentation as outlined in COMAR 10.22.12 or 10.22.13. 

• Medical Day Care Services

• Submit a letter of interest to the Office of Health Care Quality (OHCQ), including policies, staffing plans, structural design plans, and other required details. 

• Upon approval of the letter of interest, complete and submit the official application form. 

6. Required Documentation 

For all types of Day Program Services, providers must prepare the following documentation: 

• Policies and procedures for service delivery 

• Staff qualifications, job descriptions, and training records 

• Structural design plans (for medical day care facilities) 

• Daily census projections and staffing plans 

• Emergency preparedness plans 

• Participant care plans and service documentation 

• Verification of compliance with health, safety, and zoning regulations 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The approval timeline depends on the type of program: 

• For Medical Day Care Services, the OHCQ must first approve the letter of interest before accepting a formal application. 

• For Day Habilitation Services, timelines vary based on DDA review processes. 

• Contact the relevant state agency for specific timelines. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

A pre-application process is required for Medical Day Care Services: 

• Submit a letter of interest to OHCQ. 

• Await approval before submitting a formal application. 

There is no explicit pre-application process for Day Habilitation Services. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mandated, providers must ensure staff receive training in areas such as: 

• First aid and CPR 

• Person-centered planning 

• Behavioral intervention techniques 

• Medication administration (if applicable) 

10. Additional Notes 

• Medical Day Care Waiver: Medicaid participants may qualify for services under the Maryland Medical Day Care Waiver (MDCSW), which covers daytime care for individuals at risk of nursing home admission. 

• Providers must comply with all Medicaid participation requirements if serving Medicaid beneficiaries. 

• Psychiatric rehabilitation day programs have additional requirements for mental health support under COMAR regulations.