Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning (IDOOPI)

Course Overview

Welcome to the Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning (IDOOPI) training course, designed specifically for direct care staff working with individuals receiving services under Maryland’s Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). I’m Ayo AkinOni, MPH, Founder and CEO of Balanced Care Academy, and it is my joy to walk alongside you as you deepen your understanding and skills in person-centered planning that truly empowers people with developmental disabilities.

This course is rooted in practical application, grounded in faith, and driven by a deep commitment to respect, dignity, and choice for the individuals we serve. You will gain comprehensive knowledge of the Maryland COMAR 10.22 regulations related to IDOOPI, equipping you to contribute meaningfully to individualized plans that enhance quality of life, promote independence, and honor each person’s unique goals and preferences.

Together, we will explore how to embrace a strengths-based, outcome-oriented approach that moves beyond checklists to real transformation. I encourage you to engage fully, reflect deeply, and apply these principles with warmth and professionalism in your daily work. Let’s begin this journey of empowerment and excellence.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

• Understand the purpose and regulatory foundation of Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning as defined by Maryland COMAR 10.22.
• Identify the key components and processes involved in developing, implementing, and reviewing IDOOPI documents.
• Apply person-centered planning techniques to support individuals in setting meaningful, measurable outcomes.
• Collaborate effectively with individuals, families, and interdisciplinary teams to ensure plans reflect authentic choices and priorities.
• Recognize your role as a direct care professional in supporting, documenting, and advocating within the IDOOPI framework.

COMAR Regulatory Framework

The Code of Maryland Regulations (COMAR) Title 10, Subtitle 22 governs the Developmental Disabilities Administration services. The IDOOPI process is a critical component embedded within these regulations to ensure that services are person-centered, outcome-oriented, and compliant with state standards. Key regulatory requirements include:

COMAR 10.22.07.02 – Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning (IDOOPI):
“The IDOOPI process shall ensure the individual’s preferences, strengths, needs, and desired outcomes are identified and are the foundation for all service planning and delivery.”

COMAR 10.22.07.03 – Content of the IDOOPI:
“The IDOOPI document must contain measurable outcomes, specific action steps, responsible parties, timelines, and methods for ongoing review.”

COMAR 10.22.07.04 – Review and Revision:
“The IDOOPI must be reviewed at least annually and revised as necessary to reflect changes in the individual’s goals, preferences, or circumstances.”

These regulations emphasize that IDOOPI is a living document, created through collaboration, and focused on empowering the individual to direct their own life in meaningful ways. Your role in understanding and implementing these requirements is vital to compliance and, more importantly, to the person-centered values we uphold.

Core Content Modules

Module 1: Foundations of Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning

Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning (IDOOPI) is more than paperwork—it is a philosophy and practice that centers the individual’s voice in the design of supports and services. The foundation includes:

• Person-Centered Philosophy: Respecting autonomy, choice, and self-determination.
• Outcome Orientation: Focusing on what meaningful changes or achievements the individual wants to reach.
• Collaborative Teamwork: Involving the individual, family, direct care staff, and other professionals in planning.
• Strengths-Based Approach: Recognizing and building upon what the person can do and values most.

Understanding these foundations helps direct care professionals see their role as partners—facilitators, advocates, and supporters of authentic goals.

Module 2: Key Components of the IDOOPI Document

The IDOOPI document is a structured plan that translates person-centered discussions into actionable steps. It must include:

• Individual Profile: Including preferences, interests, cultural background, and health considerations.
• Desired Outcomes: Clear, measurable goals that reflect what the person wants to achieve.
• Action Steps: Specific activities or interventions designed to help reach outcomes.
• Responsible Parties: Identifying who is accountable for each action step (e.g., direct care staff, family, therapists).
• Timelines: Setting reasonable deadlines and milestones for progress.
• Monitoring and Review: Procedures for tracking progress and adjusting plans as needed.

Each element must be documented clearly to ensure transparency, accountability, and meaningful progress.

Module 3: The IDOOPI Process – Development, Implementation, and Review

The IDOOPI process unfolds in three critical phases:

1. Development: Engage the individual and team in meaningful conversations to identify goals and preferences. Use open-ended questions, active listening, and creative tools to facilitate participation. Ensure that the individual’s voice directs the planning.
2. Implementation: Carry out the action steps with fidelity. Direct care staff play a key role in supporting individuals daily, documenting progress, and communicating challenges or successes to the team.
3. Review and Revision: At least annually, the IDOOPI must be reviewed with the individual and team. Celebrate achievements, evaluate barriers, and revise goals or strategies to reflect changes in circumstances or desires.

Adhering to this cyclical process ensures that plans remain relevant and person-centered.

Module 4: Roles and Responsibilities of Direct Care Staff in IDOOPI

As a direct care professional, your responsibilities include:

• Supporting Individual Choice: Encourage and empower the person to express preferences and take an active role in their planning.
• Active Participation: Attend planning meetings when appropriate, provide input based on daily observations, and help translate goals into practical actions.
• Documentation: Accurately record progress, challenges, and changes related to the individual’s outcomes.
• Communication: Collaborate with the individual, family, and team members to ensure consistency and responsiveness.
• Advocacy: Stand up for the individual’s rights and wishes, ensuring services are delivered with dignity and respect.

Your frontline role is indispensable to the success of IDOOPI and the fulfillment of meaningful outcomes.

Module 5: Ethical and Faith-Grounded Considerations in IDOOPI

Our work is not only regulatory but deeply human and spiritual. Integrating ethical and faith principles can enhance the quality of planning and support:

• Dignity and Respect: Every individual is created with inherent worth. Honor their story, culture, and spiritual beliefs throughout the planning process.
• Compassionate Listening: Be fully present and patient as you listen to hopes and concerns.
• Empowerment Through Faith: Encourage hope and resilience, recognizing the power of faith to inspire courage and transformation.
• Integrity and Transparency: Uphold honesty and openness in documentation and communication.

By grounding your practice in these values, you contribute to healing and wholeness beyond compliance.

Practical Application

Case Study 1: Supporting James to Achieve Greater Community Inclusion

Background: James is a 28-year-old individual with developmental disabilities who wishes to become more involved in community activities but feels anxious about new environments.

IDOOPI Development: During his planning meeting, James expressed a desire to attend a local church group and participate in a weekly art class.

• Desired Outcome: James will attend the church group and art class regularly to build social connections.
• Action Steps: Direct care staff will accompany James for the first four visits, gradually encouraging independence.
• Responsible Parties: DSP assigned to James, community program coordinators.
• Timeline: Initiate within one month, with progress reviewed quarterly.

Implementation and Review: The DSP documents James’ participation and comfort levels, shares feedback during team meetings, and adjusts supports as needed to build confidence.

Case Study 2: Enhancing Self-Care Skills for Maria

Background: Maria desires to increase her independence in daily living activities, specifically in meal preparation.

IDOOPI Development: Maria and her support team identify meal preparation as a measurable outcome, with steps to build skills safely.

• Desired Outcome: Maria will prepare simple meals independently.
• Action Steps: Teaching kitchen safety, recipe following, and gradual independent practice.
• Responsible Parties: DSP, occupational therapist.
• Timeline: Six months with monthly skill assessments.

Implementation and Review: The DSP provides ongoing encouragement and documents progress, ensuring Maria’s dignity and confidence grow alongside her skills.

These scenarios illustrate how IDOOPI transforms daily care into purposeful support, fostering growth and fulfillment.

Summary & Encouragement

Thank you for investing your time and heart into mastering the Individual Directed Outcome Oriented Planning process. As direct care professionals, you are the hands and feet of a vision that honors every individual’s God-given dignity, potential, and dreams. Through adherence to Maryland’s COMAR 10.22 regulations and a commitment to person-centered, faith-grounded care, you play a vital role in shaping lives toward greater independence, joy, and purpose.

Remember, your work is a ministry of presence and empowerment. Each plan you support is a roadmap to hope. Keep listening deeply, advocating boldly, and walking faithfully alongside those you serve.

With warmth and gratitude,
Ayo AkinOni, MPH
Founder & CEO, Balanced Care Academy