Welcome to the Self-Direction Coordination Team!
Our Self-Direction Coordinators (SDCs) are your primary point of contact at Independent Support Services (ISS).
These dedicated case managers assist individuals, families, and their Circles of Support in navigating Self-Direction budgets and accessing Fiscal Intermediary (FI) services.
Each SDC works with an assigned caseload and is supported by a knowledgeable management team. Your SDC will be your regular point of contact for any Self-Direction and FI related questions or concerns. The Program Services Department has extensive expertise not only in FI policies and procedures but also in OPWDD and Medicaid regulations that shape Self-Direction in New York State. Simply put, we’re here to support you every step of the way on your Self-Direction journey!
How We Support You
Here are just a few of the ways we assist our participants:
- Serve as a liaison between participants and FI administrative teams, including Accounts Payable, People Services and Payroll Operations.
- Manage programs such as Self-Hired SEMP, Intake, and Housing Subsidy.
- Review and facilitate budget amendments for OPWDD approval.
- Ensure compliance with OPWDD & Medicaid regulations in all aspects of Self-Direction budget utilization.
- Provide essential updates to Circles of Support to maintain Medicaid compliance documentation.
- Participate in Life Plan meetings(annual and semi-annual) to offer guidance on Self-Direction policies and FI procedures.
- Maintain open communication with Circles of Support to address questions or concerns related to Self-Hired staffing, expense reimbursements, ISS portal navigation, incident reporting, general well-being and service progress.
- Assist with approvals for services such as community classes, memberships, camp programs,householditemsandservices,housingsubsidies,budgetutilizationoutsideof NY, and more!
We are committed to making Self-Direction as seamless and supportive as possible. If you have any questions, don’t hesitate to reach out — we’re here to help!