The New York State Office for People with Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) has released guidelines allowing for the resumption of home visits, community outings and day services, as well as returning to residential settings following extended home visits. The guidelines will be effective July 15, 2020 for regions of the State that have entered into Phase Four in accordance with the New York Forward Reopening Plan.
Click to view each guidance below:
Reopening Day Program Services Guidance **Updated**
Return to Residence Following an Extended Stay Guidance
Community Outings Guidance**Updated**
Revised COVID-19 Day Habilitation Guidance
Revised Interim COVID-19 Guidance Regarding Community Habilitation Services
Revised Interim COVID-19 Guidance Regarding Prevocational Services
Interim COVID-19 Guidance Regarding Pathway to Employment
Interim COVID-19 Guidance Regarding Respite
Interim COVID-19 Guidance Regarding Supported Employment
To date, Care Coordinators will continue to offer services remotely, with special exceptions made through existing approval processes. We will let families know when new guidelines surrounding Care Coordination and face-to-face meetings are released.
See the full list of OPWDD guidance documents.
OPWDD COVID-19 Resources in Plain Language
With the input of self-advocates, OPWDD has created several informational aids and resource materials that will help ensure everyone understands basic information about COVID-19 and OPWDD’s response to it.
- “COVID-19 In Plain Language,” a document available in multiple languages that explains how the virus is transmitted and how to stay safe and stop the spread.
- A series of short videos posted on the OPWDD website that explain the key elements of remaining healthy in the age of COVID-19: Proper Handwashing, Social Distancing, Wearing a Mask, All About COVID-19, and How to Greet Friends and Family.
- COVID-19 “Protect Yourself and Others” Poster & Palm Card
All these materials are accessible from the COVID-19 In Plain Language resource page on the OPWDD website.