1. Program Definition and Services 

Respite Care Services in Maryland provide short-term temporary relief to primary unpaid full-time live-in caregivers who care for individuals with disabilities, frail elderly adults, children with challenging behaviors, and those with severe medical conditions. Services include: 

• In-home respite care 

• Out-of-home respite care (in licensed facilities or camps) 

• Assistance with activities of daily living 

• One-on-one interventions with participants 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by COMAR 10.21.27 (Respite Care Services) and COMAR 10.09.56.16 (Covered Services - Respite Care)  

3. Licensing or Certification 

Certification is required to operate as a Respite Care Services provider in Maryland. Different types of providers have specific requirements: 

• Community Residential Services Providers must be licensed by the Office of Health Care Quality 

• Agency Respite Care Providers must be certified according to DDA regulations 

• Respite Care Camp Providers must be certified as Organized Health Care Delivery Services providers 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maryland Department of Health, specifically the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), is responsible for certifying Respite Care Services providers 

5. Application Process 

The application process is not explicitly stated in the provided results. Providers should contact the Maryland Department of Health's Developmental Disabilities Administration for specific application procedures. 

6. Required Documentation 

Providers must maintain and be prepared to present the following documentation :

• Licenses and credentials of all Respite Care Services Providers 

• Documented experience of all Respite Care Services Providers 

• Records of service delivery in accordance with applicable laws, regulations, policies, and guidance 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The available results do not provide a specific timeline for approval. Providers should contact the DDA for this information. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process in the provided results. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, providers must ensure that staff complete training designated by the DDA 

10. Additional Notes 

• Respite Care Services Providers must meet specific qualifications, including age requirements, background checks, and certifications 

• Providers must follow authorization and documentation guidelines in accordance with DDA policies 

• Respite care services can be provided under different service delivery models, including Traditional and Self-Directed Service Delivery Models, each with its own set of requirements 

• Providers must ensure compliance with staffing ratios and service requirements as outlined in COMAR 10.21.27