We conducted two studies to select an instrument that could be used statewide in North Carolina to assess level of intensity of support needs for all persons in the Developmental Disabilities Service System in a consistent, reliable, and valid manner. Study 1 compared three assessment instruments: two standardized instruments [the Inventory for Client and Agency Planning (ICAP) and the Developmental Disabilities Profile (DDP)] and the North Carolina Support Needs Assessment Profile (NC-SNAP) in measuring the level or intensity of a person's needs. Study 2 reexamined the NC-SNAP after extensive revisions were made to it in an attempt to improve predictive validity. Results of this research indicated that the NC-SNAP is a reliable instrument capable of a valid assessment of levels or intensity of needs. North Carolina has adopted the NC-SNAP and its associated database program as the statewide assessment protocol. We discuss issues regarding evaluation of individual level of need and future research.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
The authors are grateful for the invaluable leadership and support provided by Drs Patricia Porter and Stan Slawinski, as well as the guidance of North Carolina's Developmental Disabilities Policy Advisory Work Group, and the contributions of the North Carolina Council on Developmental Disability, Jennifer Kavanaugh, William Ware, and countless case managers, providers, individuals, families, and associates.
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Also known as the Developmental Disabilities Support Needs Assessment Profile or DD-SNAP.
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Hennike, J.M., Myers, A.M., Realon, R.E. et al. Development and Validation of a Needs-Assessment Instrument For Persons with Developmental Disabilities. J Dev Phys Disabil 18, 201–217 (2006). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10882-006-9012-x
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10882-006-9012-x