Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD)

1. Apply to DDD: 

Applying to DDD is an essential step to access services for individuals in Arizona. Available to individuals age 3 and older, eligibility depends on specific criteria. Having a diagnosis alone doesn’t guarantee qualification. 

To be eligible for DDD, you must:  

- Be an Arizona resident  

- Be at risk for a developmental disability before age 6, or have a diagnosis (like Epilepsy, Cerebral Palsy, Autism, Down Syndrome, or Cognitive Disability) after age 6  

- Be diagnosed before age 18  

- Have functional limitations in at least 3 of the 7 major life areas: self-care, receptive/expressive language, learning, mobility, independent living, self-direction, or economic self-sufficiency

ALTCS – Medicaid Funding for DDD Services 

ALTCS (Arizona Long Term Care System) provides Medicaid funding for the services coordinated by the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). 

To apply, follow these steps:

1. Financial Interview: A phone interview to confirm that your child has no more than $2,000 in assets.  

2. PAS (Preadmission Screening) Interview: An in-person interview to assess your child’s development. You must score 40 points to qualify.  

After submitting your application, ALTCS has 45 days to make a decision. If denied, you have the right to appeal. The appeal process typically takes 90 days (or 120 days with a continuance).  

Once approved, you will select a health plan through AHCCCS, Arizona's Medicaid program. You’ll need to choose a plan within 30 days and can switch once per year. Be sure to review the new member handbook and confirm that your current doctors are part of your selected plan before making your choice.