The Office of the Ombudsperson and the Office of the Self-Determination Program (SDP) Ombudsperson operate independently within California’s Department of Developmental Services to support you and your family in accessing regional center services. Ombudspersons give information and assistance, facilitate solutions to disagreements, compile and report data to lawmakers, and recommend policy changes. In January 2025, the Offices released a report featuring comprehensive statistics, first-hand accounts of individuals they have assisted, and policy recommendations to the Department. The Offices track and categorize contacts based on concerns such as regional center eligibility and appeal processes. They also monitor their responses to concerns. What you may learn in the report: The Office of the SDP Ombudsperson helps you and your family navigate the Self-Determination Program. Since opening on October 12, 2021, it has handled 2,675 contacts through June 2024, with most inquiries concerning Financial Management Services vendors, including payment issues, onboarding, availability and communication. The Office of the Ombudsperson supports you and your family whether you’re applying for or are already receiving regional center services outside of the SDP. Since opening on December 1, 2022, this office received 1,103 contacts through June 2024, mostly from people looking for general information, including eligibility timelines and what to do if they’ve been denied services. The Offices play a key role in resolving payment issues, improving language accessibility, and clarifying policies that affect services. Recommendations from the Offices that led to policy improvements include:
  • Increased frequency of regional center reimbursement to FMS agencies
  • Revised FMS rates
  • Enhanced billing system to prevent errors and service interruptions
  • Standardized vendor packet for Self-Directed Supports
  • Improved support for conservatees through interagency coordination and visits
  • Advocacy group visits to conservatees on an ongoing basis
Looking ahead in 2025, the Offices aim to expand outreach, particularly to diverse communities, enhance data collection and public dashboards, and observe Lanterman Act hearings on eligibility and services to better assist callers in navigating the appeals process, and to make policy recommendations. You can contact the Office of the SDP Ombudsperson and the Office of the Ombudsperson through the Department’s webpage.
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