Eligibility
Frequently Asked Questions | Facilities
Who is eligible to receive services from the Division of MRDD?
Eligibility is determined by what's known as a functional assessment as opposed to linking eligibility to a specific diagnosis. A developmental disability is a disability which is attributable to mental retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, head injury, autism, or a learning disability related to a brain dysfunction, or any other mental or physical or mental impairment which occurs before the age 22. It must be determined that this disability is likely to continue indefinitely and that it results in a substantial functional limitation in two or more of the following six areas of major life activities: self care, receptive and expressive language development and use, learning, self-direction, capacity for independent living or economic self sufficiency and mobility.
Who should I contact if I believe I am eligible or a member in my family is eligible for services?
There are 11 regional offices located throughout the state in the following cities: Central Mo. Regional Office (Columbia, Mo.), Albany, Hannibal, Joplin, Kansas City, Kirksville, Poplar Bluff, Rolla, St. Louis (North and South), Sikeston, and Springfield. The addresses and phone numbers of these regional offices can be located through the Department of Mental Health web page or by clicking here.
If I'm eligible for services, is there an age requirement?
No. The Division of MRDD provides services to persons of any age. The only age requirement in determining eligibility is that the disability must have occurred prior to age 22 and is likely to last indefinitely.
