Implementation of remote support services: Pre-COVID-19

Abstract

In this national survey of departments of developmental disabilities services across the United States, we attempted to establish the number of the states that made remote support services available as an authorized service in some state Medicaid funded developmental disabilities waiver programs. Remote support services were defined as a service that uses technology to support an individual with developmental disabilities and is provided from a location outside of the person's home. Remote support services involve the use of technology to provide real-time assistance from a direct support professional from a remote location. We found that 18 of the 49 states (37%) that responded to our telephone survey reported offering some form of remote support services. This survey was conducted pre-COVID-19 and the implications of the availability of remote support services are discussed especially in light of COVID-19.