Supporting Individuals and Families to
Self Direct Their Lives Through the
Maryland New Directions Medicaid Waiver

A Support Broker is one of the requirements for enrollment in the New Directions waiver. The Support Broker is a person who will help you make decisions on the supports or services that are best for you. They will work with you on recruiting and hiring staff, work with DDA Regional Office staff and make sure that you have the supports in place to live successfully in the community. How often and what type of help you get will depend on your specific needs.

The individual or family can either hire the Support Broker themselves or they can buy Support Broker services from a DDA-licensed agency.

The Support Broker must:

• • Have a criminal background check
• Be trained on person-specific information
• Be familiar with self-directed services and the DDA service system

The Support Broker will help you:

• Develop your plan
• Develop and manage your budget
• Develop an emergency back-up plan
• Manage your services
• Recruit, hire and supervise your staff

Who Can be a Support Broker?

• A member of your family (only certain members can be paid), or
• A trusted friend, or
• Anyone who meets the requirements above, and who you trust!

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINISTRATION
NEW DIRECTIONS
Maryland’s Independence Plus Waiver For Individuals with Developmental Disabilities