Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD)

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What's Included in the DBMD Program
Requirements to Receive DBMD Services
Three Top Tips for Waiver Lists

The DBMD program provides services for people who are deaf-blind or have a condition that leads to deaf-blindness, plus an additional disability.

This waiver is an alternative to receiving services in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID).

What's Included in the DBMD Program

DBMD services include: adaptive aids, medical supplies, audiology, behavior support services, assisted living (licensed up to 6 beds), respite care, dietary services, occupational therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, minor home modifications, nursing, prescription drugs, and others.

DBMD also offers people the choice to self-direct some services. This means anybody enrolled in the program can have control over how some of their services are delivered and managed.

Requirements to Receive DBMD Services

No age limit to receive services.
Must have a diagnosis of deaf-blindness or a condition that will cause deaf-blindness, plus at least 1 other disability that impairs independent functioning.
Income and assets may not be more than specified limits: a monthly income of up to 300% of the monthly income limit for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and no more than $2,000 in assets. This refers to your child’s income, not the family income.
Cannot be enrolled in another waiver program. Your child can remain on other waiver interest lists while enrolled in the DBMD waiver program.

Compare the waiver programs and the services they offer, including DBMD.

Three Top Tips for Waiver Lists

Don’t Delay, Add Your Child Right Away: Consider adding your child to as many waiver interest lists as possible when your child is first diagnosed with a disability or special health care needs. You should also think about adding your child to the lists even if they aren’t diagnosed but you have reason to believe that your child will have a long-term disability or special health care needs.
Learn More: If you are interested in applying for services, email [email protected] or call the HHS Office of the Ombudsman at 1-877-787-8999, select a language, and then select Option 3.
Update Your Information Every Year: At least 1 time a year, call to update your contact information so they know how to reach you. Most parents remember by calling around their child’s birthday.