What is a DSP?
A Direct Support Professional (DSP) is someone who helps individuals with developmental disabilities live more independently and safely. Part of that role may include giving medications, but only if you’re legally certified to do so in the state of Ohio.
If you’ve taken a medication administration certification class or a renewal class, you might be asking: “How do I know I’m legally allowed to give medications?”
Step 1: Confirm Your Medication Administration Certification
In Ohio, DSPs must be certified through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) before administering any medications. Just taking the class isn’t enough—you must confirm that your certification is active and approved by DODD.
You can check your certification in two ways:
- Check your email for a DODD notification showing your certification dates.
- Look it up on the DODD website using the Medication Administration Certification Lookup Tool. Here is the link to the tool: https://mais.prodapps.dodd.ohio.gov/MAIS_PASearch.aspx
This step ensures you are legally cleared to administer medications. If your certification isn’t active in the DODD system, you cannot legally give medications, even if you’ve finished the training.
Step 2: Know Your Certification Level
DODD offers three levels of certification:
- Category 1: For giving routine medications like pills, creams, or inhalers.
- Category 2: For giving food and medication through a feeding tube.
- Category 3: For giving insulin injections.
Ensure you’re aware of the level for which you’re certified. You can only perform tasks that match your certification level.
Step 3: Complete Individual-Specific Training
After your certification is confirmed, the next step is to complete individual-specific training. This training teaches you how to safely administer medications to the individuals you support, as every person has unique needs, reactions, and routines.
Even if you are certified, you may not give medications to a specific person until this training is complete. It helps ensure the safety and well-being of the individuals in your care.
Step 4: Stay Up to Date
Keep track of your:
- Certification expiration date
- Required renewal classes
- Any changes in medication policies or procedures
Summary:
To legally administer medications as a DSP in Ohio:
- Confirm your DODD certification is active.
- Understand your certification level (Category 1, 2, or 3).
- Complete individual-specific training for each person you serve.
- Stay current with renewals and ongoing requirements.
Administering medication is a serious responsibility. Following these steps helps protect you, your employer, and most importantly, the individuals you support.