This section contains basic information about the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP) Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) and Adult Community Autism Program (ACAP), including how to request an application.
For additional information about the waiver, including Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs), monitoring reports, and a copy of the current waiver, visit the Department of Human Services (DHS) website.
There are two ways to request an application for Pennsylvania’s adult autism programs (Adult Autism Waiver and Adult Community Autism Program): by phone, or online. Applications may not be requested via email.
To request an application by phone:
Call 1-866-539-7689 (toll-free number) and follow the prompts to select the Adult Autism Waiver or the Adult Community Autism Program. Leave a message with the following information:
• Name of the person who wishes to apply
• Telephone number
• Address
• County of Residence
• If you are calling on the behalf of the person who wishes to apply also leave your name and daytime phone number.
To request an application online:
Visit the Information Referral Tool (IRT):
• The IRT asks a few basic questions and will link individuals who indicate an interest in Autism Services to the COMPASS website
• After answering some additional questions, the referral is submitted electronically to the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations.
• Once connected to COMPASS, select “Submit a Referral.”
The Services & Supports Directory provides a comprehensive list of Adult Autism Waiver (AAW) service providers, the counties they serve, and how to contact them. You can access this resource directly online or via a printable PDF.
This Participant Handbook is designed to provide participants with important information about the Adult Autism Waiver (AAW). It includes the following:
• What individuals should expect as a participant in the AAW
• Participants’ rights and responsibilities
• Contact information for the Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP)
• Samples of important documents
This section includes current BSASP/ Bureau of Supports for Autism and Special Populations (BSASP) forms for use by Adult Autism Waiver participants.
• Some forms contain instructions for completion.
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