The South Carolina Department of Disabilities and Special Needs (SCDDSN) is the state authority that supports South Carolina residents with disabilities. Per state mandate, SCDDSN maintains primary oversight of programs and services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and related conditions, including—but not limited to—cerebral palsy and epilepsy, autism spectrum disorders, and traumatic injuries to the head or spinal cord.
SCDDSN coordinates care delivery through a network of county-level Disabilities and Special Needs Boards. These local boards help families access support options, from housing in supervised group homes to day programs that build life skills and employment readiness. They also arrange therapeutic interventions, such as, such as speech and occupational therapy, particularly for young children who need early support.
Respite care programs can provide some relief to parents caring for children with disabilities. Meanwhile, case managers work one-on-one with individuals to coordinate their services and ensure their needs are met appropriately.
Before accessing any services, individuals must complete an eligibility determination process to verify that they meet SCDDSN’s support criteria. It’s worth noting that even after establishing eligibility, some people may temporarily be placed on waiting lists until program spots become available in their area.
As mentioned earlier, the services shall be provided under state regulations and subject to available funding and resources as appropriated by the South Carolina General Assembly.
