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Supports Intensity Scale (SIS)

What is the SIS?

“The Supports Intensity Scale is an assessment tool that evaluates practical support requirements of a person with a developmental disability. The SIS measures support requirements in 57 life activities and 28 behavioral and medical areas. The assessment is done through an interview with the individual, and those who know the person well.

SIS measures support needs in the areas of home living, community living, lifelong learning, employment, health and safety, social activities, and protection and advocacy. Finally, a Supports Intensity Level is determined based on the Total Support Needs Index, which is a standard score generated from scores on all the items tested by the Scale. Traditionally, a person's level of developmental disability has been measured by the skills the individual lacks. The SIS shifts the focus from lacks to needs. The Scale evaluates practical supports people with developmental disabilities need to lead independent lives.” (AAMR)

Why is the SIS important to me?

Georgia has begun using the SIS to help determine the level of supports an individual will need to lead an independent life. The SIS is being used to develop individualized goals in the Individual Support Plans (ISP) and will be used in the future to determine the level of services that a person receives in the waiver program

Where can I find out more information on the SIS?