The Services Intake Department is primarily responsible for screening applicants for the Elderly and Disabled Consumer Directed (EDCD) Waiver. This is a Virginia Medicaid Waiver and Medicaid is required. This waiver provides services to approved applicants to assist them in remaining in their home or community. If an applicant is determined as being at immediate risk of being placed in a nursing home, he/she can be eligible for these services and receive personal care services, adult day health care services, and/or respite care. These services are aimed at helping applicants maintain their health as well as to support his/her primary caregiver.

An applicant must be screened before being considered eligible for this program. The screening team consists of a DSS Family Services Specialist and a Department of Health Nurse. The Universal Assessment Instrument (UAI) tool is used for gathering information.

Another function of the Services Intake Unit is to serve as the liaison between clients and other community agencies. The Services Intake Unit makes referrals to appropriate in-house units as well as to other community agencies as needed for services. The Unit maintains an in-house food pantry with non-perishable food items for clients with emergency food needs. The unit is in the process of teaming with other agencies to support community re-entry for ex-offenders as well as preventing homelessness in the community.