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Becoming An
Independent Provider
A meaningful and flexible path within
self-directed services.
Supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through self-directed services can be meaningful and flexible work. In Nebraska’s self-directed service model, individuals and families choose the providers who support them rather than receiving services through an agency.
Independent providers work directly with individuals to support daily life, skill development and community participation. Many providers choose this role because it allows them to build meaningful working relationships while maintaining flexibility and independence in how they structure their work.
The Role of an Independent Provider
Independent providers offer direct support services to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities through Nebraska’s Medicaid Home and Community Based Services system.
Support looks different for each individual, but often includes:
Community Activities
Supporting participation in community activities.
Personal Growth
Encouraging independence and personal growth.
Daily Living Skills
Teaching and strengthening daily living skills.
Routines & Goals
Assisting with routines and goal-based activities.
Communication Skills
Building communication and social skills.
Documenting services
Maintaining professional documentation of services.
Independent provider work combines meaningful relationships with professional responsibility. Providers manage their schedules, maintain service documentation and communicate regularly with individuals, families and service coordinators to ensure services remain aligned with the individual’s goals.
How the System Works
Independent providers are approved through the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) as Medicaid providers.
Providers operate as self-employed professionals who deliver services directly to individuals and families receiving support through Nebraska’s Home and Community Based Services waivers. Within this structure, providers establish service agreements directly with the individual and their guardian and follow the service plan developed through the Medicaid waiver system.
This typically includes:
• Completing the Medicaid provider enrollment process through DHHS
• Operating an independent, self-employed service practice
• Contracting directly with individuals receiving services and their guardians
• Following service plans and documentation expectations within the waiver system
Soaring Connections supports independent providers through orientation, learning opportunities and professional resources that strengthen practice within self-directed services.
Qualities That Support Success in This Role
Independent provider work requires both compassion and professionalism. Providers who thrive in this role often demonstrate:
• Reliability and consistency
• Clear communication with individuals and families
• Professional boundaries and accountability
• Comfort working independently
• Patience and adaptability
• Respect for individual autonomy and choice
• A desire to support meaningful participation in everyday life
These qualities help providers build strong working relationships and create stable, supportive environments.
How to Begin
If you are interested in becoming an independent provider, two steps may be helpful as you explore this path.
You may review the Nebraska DHHS provider enrollment process to understand the requirements for becoming an approved Medicaid provider.
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Provider orientation is often the best starting point for individuals who are exploring this role. Orientation introduces the structure of self-directed services, the responsibilities of independent providers and the expectations that support strong professional practice.