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We believe individuals with developmental disabilities should have full control over the support they receive. Our Self-Directed Services (SDS) are designed to promote independence, community integration, and personal growth — all while giving individuals and families the freedom to choose how their care is delivered. Below are the core services we offer under our DDA (SDS) program:

Personal Support

We provide one-on-one assistance with daily living activities such as hygiene, meal preparation, dressing, mobility, and light housekeeping. This support helps individuals maintain their routines while building self-sufficiency in a safe and respectful environment.

Community Development Services

We help individuals actively engage in their communities through recreational, social, educational, and volunteer activities. This service is designed to enhance social skills, foster inclusion, and build independence through meaningful participation.

Respite Care

We offer short-term relief to family caregivers by providing trusted, temporary care for their loved one. Whether it’s for a few hours or a few days, respite ensures that caregivers can rest or attend to other responsibilities while knowing their loved one is safe and well cared for.

Nursing Support Services

Licensed nurses provide oversight, training, and clinical support within an individual’s SDS plan. This includes health assessments, medication administration guidance, wound care monitoring, and coordination with physicians when needed.

Transportation Services

We offer reliable, door-to-door transportation for individuals to attend appointments, job training, classes, or community activities. Transportation is scheduled around the individual’s preferences and helps foster independence and accessibility.

Support Broker

We guide individuals and families in managing self-directed services, including budgeting and planning. Our Support Brokers ensure DDA compliance while helping individuals make informed choices about their care.

What are Self-Directed Services (SDS)?

SDS is a service delivery model through Maryland’s Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) that allows individuals with disabilities more control over their services. Participants can hire, train, and manage their own support staff.

  • Individuals enrolled in one of Maryland’s DDA Medicaid Waivers (Community Pathways, Community Supports, or Family Supports).
  • Must be approved to self-direct by the DDA.
  • Must have a Person-Centered Plan (PCP) that supports self-direction.

Some services that can be self-directed include:

  • Community Development Services (CDS)
  • Personal Supports
  • Employment Services
  • Respite Care
  • Support Broker Services
  • Transportation 

Yes. You can select your own support staff, including family members (with restrictions), and work with a Fiscal Management Service (FMS) to process timesheets and payroll.

A Support Broker helps individuals manage their SDS services. They assist with hiring, training, scheduling, and other administrative duties, but the participant or representative retains control over decisions.

  • Let your CCS know you’d like Amara Health Care as your provider.
  • Your CCS or Support Broker will send us a referral.
  • We’ll schedule an intake and match you with a qualified DSP based on your needs.

Yes. Our Direct Support Professionals are:

  • CPR/First Aid certified
  • Trained in person-centered practices
  • Screened and background checked
  • Provided with ongoing education to support diverse needs

Yes! SDS allows for flexibility. Services can be delivered:

  • In your home
  • In the community (library, job site, gym, etc.)
  • Wherever your goals can be supported
  • Yes, we support youth and adults with developmental disabilities, depending on the DDA waiver they are enrolled in. 

Yes. You have the right to choose or change your provider at any time. Your CCS can help initiate the transition to Amara Health Care.

You can reach out directly at:

📞 667-254-0086
📧 info@amarahelthcare.net
🌐https://amarahealthcare.net/

Or have your CCS or Support Broker submit a referral to us.

Types of Care We Provide

24-hour Care

We offer 24-hour care to help our clients receive the round-the-clock assistance they need. With this, family members may also receive respite services, allowing them to take breaks from their caregiving duties.

Long-term Care

For those who have chronic health issues or individuals that need long-term support, our caregivers are here to help them maintain their comfort and safety at home.

Short-term Care

Individuals dealing with an illness, surgery, or injury that may last from a couple of days or months may benefit from short-term care. With this, they’ll be provided with support in managing their daily living and health needs.

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