As the Welfare and Institutions Code, Section 4519.8 requires, the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) submitted a service provider rate study to the Legislature in March 2019. The rate study addressed several areas, including but not limited to, evaluating alternative rate-setting methodologies, the number and types of service codes, and recommendations for simplifying and making service codes more reflective of the services provided. The rate study recommended using “rate models,” which identify cost factors and estimated costs for delivering various services and establish rates for services.
On September 19, 2024, DDS released a directive on the full implementation of the Rate Reform. The letter provides some background regarding rate reform, highlights some of the steps that have occurred over the last few years, and previews some upcoming activities.
On April 1, 2025, the Department of Developmental Services issued a directive extending the timeline for completion of Rate Reform Service Acknowledgement Forms (SAFs) from March 31, 2025 to May 30, 2025. In the next few weeks, Harbor will be working diligently to send out the Rate Reform Service Acknowledgements. The directive also provides updates regarding the Quality Incentive Program and Provider Directory
The final phase of Rate Reform is here and may require some quick action from our Service Provider Community. Rate Reform implementation is moving quickly as the Department of Developmental Services (DDS) plans to release a series of directives in the coming months. Directives will provide regional centers and providers with guidance on service descriptions, new components, and timelines.
Recently released DDS directives can be found below. For all directives, please visit the DDS website.
