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Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Certification

Multi-cultural group of medical professionals smiling at the camera.

Certification for Qualified Vendors

The Office of Licensing, Certification and Regulation (OLCR) issues HCBS certificates. All provider agencies must have an HCBS certificate to provide services to DDD members.

HCBS certification helps make sure that people who provide direct care:

  • Meet required qualifications
  • Are prepared to support people with developmental disabilities

These services include:

  • Attendant Care
  • Day Treatment and Training
  • Habilitation
  • Personal Care
  • Respite Care
  • Therapy Services
  • Transportation
  • Several other services designed for DDD members

HCBS Certification for Providers Contracted with DDD (Qualified Vendors)

For providers who are Qualified Vendors with DDD, HCBS certification is completed through the Focus system.

Step 1: Become a Qualified Vendor

You must first Become a Qualified Vendor for DDD before applying for HCBS certification.

For help:

Step 2: Apply for HCBS Certification

Once you are a Qualified Vendor:

  • The agency or therapist submits an application packet to the Office of Licensing, Certification and Regulation (OLCR)
  • The packet is for:
    • HCBS Certification, and
    • Enrollment with Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS)

The application is completed in the OLCR Tracking Application within the Focus system. The system includes step-by-step instructions.

For more details, review:

Agency roster requirements

Agencies must use the following tools:

Roster and BG Check Guide

Roster and BG Check Guide

HCBS Certification for Providers Contracted with a Managed Care Organization (MCO), Effective 10/1/2019

If you are contracted with an MCO and not with DDD, follow these steps to get HCBS certification.

Step 1: Submit an application

  • Complete and submit application form LCR-1083A to OLCR for HCBS certification.

Step 2: Submit required documents

You must also send:

  • Three letters of reference for the Owner/Executive or agency
  • A copy of a valid Level One fingerprint clearance card for the Owner/Executive
  • A copy of the agency brochure or a link to the agency website
  • A completed Criminal History Self Disclosure Affidavit for the Owner/Executive
If the Owner/Executive also provides direct care:

Submit copies of:

  • CPR certification
  • First Aid certification (therapists do not need this)
  • Article 9 certificate
  • Professional license (for therapists and professional providers)

Step 3: Submit an Agency Roster

Provide an Agency Roster of Employees that lists:

  • All staff who will provide services
  • Any agency-owned vehicles used to transport members

Use the Agency Roster Instructions and Template.

The roster confirms that staff meet HCBS training and qualification requirements.

Facility-based services

If services are provided in a provider-owned or leased facility:

  • A Life Safety Inspection is required every two years
  • Rules are found in LCR-1036A. You may request a life-safety inspection using form LCR-1033A.

You may send your application and supporting documents by mail, fax, or email:

HCBS Certification
P.O. Box 6123-Mail Drop 2HF1
Phoenix, AZ 85005-6123
OLCR Contact List
Email: [email protected]

Providers who are contracted with both DDD and an MCO must complete HCBS certification through the Focus system.

If you want to contract with DDD:

They can give you guidance on how to become a Qualified Vendor.

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