A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is a caregiver who provides hands-on support to individuals with disabilities, helping them with daily activities, personal care, skill-building, and community integration.

In the context of Individualized Support Services (ISS) and Medicaid billing, DSPs are essential frontline workers who deliver the direct care that agencies bill for. Their responsibilities may include:

• Assisting with personal hygiene, dressing, and mobility
• Helping individuals develop independent living skills
• Providing transportation to appointments and community activities
• Supporting individuals in employment or educational settings
• Documenting services provided for compliance and billing purposes

Since ISS billing often revolves around tracking service hours, proper documentation by DSPs is crucial for Medicaid reimbursement. Many provider agencies use electronic visit verification (EVV) systems or case management software to ensure accurate records of DSP work.