Developmental Services - Support Intensity Scale (SIS)

Welcome to our webpage on the initiative to implement the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) in Maine! We are committed to providing you with timely and relevant information that will be important to know as we work to create a fair and equitable way of aligning our resources with the support needs of individuals we serve.

For more information contact:
Denise McCarthy, SIS Project Manager
Maine Department of Health & Human Services
Office of Adults with Cognitive and Physical Disabilities Services
SHS# 11, 32 Blossom Lane
Augusta, ME 04333

Email: denise.mccarthy@maine.gov
Phone: (207) 287-4227

On this Page:

 

What is the Supports Intensity Scales (SIS)?

  • The Supports Intensity Scale is an assessment tool that measures practical supports that a person with an intellectual disability needs in order to be successful in the community.
  • The SIS is strength-based and reflects core values held by the OACPDS including self-direction, personal choice and inclusion.
  • The SIS is a nationally recognized, valid and reliable assessment tool developed by the American Association on Intellectual Disabilities (AAIDD).
  • The SIS reflects a positive way of thinking about assessment, focusing on the amount of support and assistance that a person needs to accomplish everyday community living activities.

Why is Maine Implementing the SIS?

  • Maine needs a reliable method of assessing individual support needs to develop a rational approach to resource allocation.
  • The current system is not sustainable.
  • Maine has chosen to use the SIS because it is designed to measure an individual's level of practical supports in order to live successfully in the community.

What Happens Next?

Phase 1      

  • Pilot Interviews began in March 2012 with a random sample of 500 individuals. The data will be compiled for review and analysis. Sampling to be completed in September 2012.
  • Individual funding will not be changes as a result of the SIS until Phase 3 of the Project.

Phase 2

  • Interviews for the remaining individuals eligible for Developmental Services will be scheduled over a two and one-half to three year period.
  • Information from the data analysis and algorithms obtained from Phase 1 will be used to begin the Rate Study.

 

How Does the Assessment Occur?

  • A trained interviewer will use the SIS to measure an individual's support needs during a two-to-three and one-half hour small group interview.
  • The interview may be held in a variety of locations that offer privacy and comfort such as the person's home, where they spend the day, or another place where the person is comfortable

Who Attends the SIS Interview?

  • In addition to the individual, at least two people who are familiar with the person may attend the SIS interview. A reasonably small team is recommended to maintain the opportunity for discussion.
  • In addition to the individual these may include:
    • A guardian, family member or advocate
    • A case manager
    • A service provider who supports the individual

What Kind of Questions Will be Asked?

  • Questions will be asked about the supports a person needs at home, in the community, with friends, and at school or work.
  • Other questions will be focused on health and safety needs and essential medical and behavioral supports.
  • The interviewer will want to know:
    • The type of support needed (monitor, prompt, or physical assist)
    • How often support is needed (weekly, daily, or hourly)
    • How much support is needed (total time per day)

What Are Some Tips for a Successful Interview?

Before the Interview

  • Think about the supports that are needed.
  • What type?
  • How often?
  • For how much time?

During the Interview

  • Keep an open mind.
  • If you don't understand what is being said, ask the interviewer.
  • If you need a break, tell the interviewer.

After the Interview

  • Contact your case manager if you want a summary of the results.
  • Call (207) 287-4227 if you have questions about the interview.

Does the SIS Replace a Person Centered Planning Meeting?

  • No. The Person Centered Planning meeting will continue to be held once a year for every consumer. The SIS will be administered since the PCP process does not provide adequate information to determine support needs. The SIS assessment interview will be completed every three years and more often as support needs change.

AAIDD SIS Website

Printable Brochure