The Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities is dedicated to providing quality, person-centered support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. This system aims to empower individuals to make informed choices and access timely, effective, and comprehensive services throughout their lives, all while ensuring their progress, quality of life, and safety are carefully monitored.
To access these vital services, it’s essential to understand the Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services, or PUNS.
Frequently Asked Questions About PUNS
What is PUNS and How Does it Help?
PUNS, which stands for Prioritization of Urgency of Need for Services, is a statewide registry designed to collect information about individuals with developmental disabilities who are either planning for or actively seeking services in Illinois. Think of it as a waiting list and a crucial planning tool.
The State of Illinois utilizes the data gathered through PUNS for several important purposes:
- Service Allocation: When funding becomes available, PUNS data helps the state to fairly select individuals to receive services.
- Budgeting and Planning: The information in PUNS is vital for developing budget proposals, creating materials for funding requests, and strategically planning for the future service needs of individuals with developmental disabilities across Illinois.
Why Should You Enroll in PUNS?
Enrolling in PUNS is a critical first step if you or a family member with a developmental disability may need services now or in the future. Here’s why enrollment is important:
- Identify Service Needs: The PUNS enrollment process itself helps individuals and families to clearly identify and articulate their current and anticipated service needs and preferences.
- Register for Services: PUNS registration is the gateway to being considered for services when they become available through the Illinois Department of Human Services.
Who is Eligible to Enroll in PUNS?
Any child, teenager, or adult in Illinois who has a developmental disability and requires or desires services and supports is eligible to enroll in PUNS. There are no age restrictions.
What Happens During the PUNS Enrollment Process?
The PUNS enrollment process is designed to be supportive and informative. Here’s what you can expect:
- Meeting with an ISC Agent: An individual with a developmental disability (along with their guardian, caregiver, or family members) will meet in person with an Independent Service Coordination (ISC) Agent. ISC Agencies are local points of contact for disability services.
- Service Planning and Registration: The ISC Agent will guide the individual and their family through a discussion to identify, understand, and plan for their specific service needs. They will then assist in completing the PUNS registration.
How Often is PUNS Information Updated?
To ensure the PUNS database remains accurate and reflects current needs, updates are essential:
- Annual Contact: ISC Agencies will reach out to families at least once a year to review and update their information.
- Changes in Service Needs: It’s important to contact your ISC Agency whenever there are changes in the individual’s service needs, whether those needs increase or change in nature.
- Contact Information Updates: Keep your ISC Agency informed of any changes to your contact information, such as address or phone number, to ensure you don’t miss important communications.
- Caregiver Information Changes: If there are changes to caregiver information, this should also be updated with the ISC Agency.
How Does the PUNS Selection Process Work?
When funding becomes available and the Department of Human Services is able to offer services, individuals are selected from the PUNS registry based on a prioritized system:
- Age: Age can be a factor in prioritization, though specific details may vary.
- Status (Planning or Seeking): Individuals actively seeking services may be prioritized over those who are simply planning for future needs.
- Time on PUNS: Generally, the length of time an individual has been registered on PUNS is a significant factor in selection, reflecting the urgency of need.
When Will an Individual Be Selected for Services?
It’s important to understand that PUNS is a waiting list, and selection for services is dependent on several factors:
- Funding Availability: The primary factor determining when selections are made is the availability of state and federal funding for developmental disability services.
- Program Vacancies: Selections are also made based on the ability to fill open spots or vacancies in existing service programs.
How Will You Know if You’ve Been Selected from PUNS?
Transparency is important in the PUNS process. Here’s how you will be notified if selected:
- Official Letter from DHS: Individuals selected from the PUNS registry will receive a letter directly from the Illinois Department of Human Services.
- Invitation to Apply: This letter will formally announce their selection and invite them to begin the application process for specific services by contacting their ISC Agency.
What to Do in Case of a Crisis While Enrolled in PUNS?
PUNS enrollment is for ongoing and future service needs. If a crisis situation arises requiring immediate support, do not wait for PUNS selection:
- Contact Your ISC Agency Immediately: Families facing a crisis should contact their ISC Agency right away. ISC Agencies can help connect individuals with immediate, emergency resources available in their local area.
- Crisis Criteria: Individuals who meet specific crisis criteria may be able to access emergency services without needing to wait on the PUNS list. Your ISC agency can help determine if you meet these criteria.
Important Note: Enrollment in PUNS is a crucial step in accessing services, but it is not a guarantee of eligibility for services, nor does it guarantee that services will be immediately provided. PUNS ensures that the IDHS’ Division of Developmental Disabilities is aware of an individual’s needs and places them in the queue for potential service allocation as resources become available.
Contact the Illinois Department of Human Services (IDHS)
For further information or assistance, please reach out to the Illinois Department of Human Services through the following channels:
24-hour automated helpline:
- 1-800-843-6154
- 1-866-324-5553 (TTY)
Speak with a representative (Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:30 pm, except state holidays):
- Available through the helpline numbers above.
Automated number for local DD service information:
- 1-888-DDPLANS
- 1-866-376-8446 (TTY)
Contact via mail:
Illinois Department of Human Services
319 East Madison, 4N
Springfield, IL 62701
Visit our website:
www.dhs.state.il.us
The Illinois Department of Human Services is committed to equal opportunity and access to programs, activities, and employment, regardless of age, sex, race, sexual orientation, disability, ethnic origin, or religion. The department is an equal opportunity employer, practicing affirmative action and providing reasonable accommodations.
DHS 4313 (R-1-22) Understanding PUNS. Printed by the Authority of the State of Illinois.
