Medicaid Waivers
Medicaid Waivers are one option available to states to allow them to provide medical care services in home and community-based settings under the Medicaid program. States can offer a variety of services under these programs. A Medicaid waiver program can be helpful to provide additional coverage.
The waiver program allows states to be more flexible in the use of their federal Medicaid funds. They may cover items not typically covered by Medicaid or extend coverage to families that wouldn’t otherwise qualify. The waiver may exclude your income to allow your child to receive Medicaid coverage. Some states have the Katie Beckett waiver, but there are other names and types of waivers as well.
Below are examples of some services and supports that may be covered with a waiver:
- Van lifts
- Home modifications
- Respite care
- Home or personal care services
- Recreational equipment
- Communication or technology aids
This is not an all-inclusive list, and benefits vary from state to state. Access to these programs also varies. Contact your county’s social or human services department and ask about the waiver program. If the person you speak to isn’t familiar with the term, explain your situation. Ask about funding for your child’s services and supports. Other individuals who may help include early intervention staff, community mental health, hospital social workers or your child’s physician. Be sure to ask about other funding sources besides the waiver.
The Kid’s Waivers website contains a list all of the Medicaid waivers and other programs, regardless of type, available for children in the United States, ordered alphabetically by state. It includes information on program type, ages served, level of care, population served, and income waiver. Click on your state name to access detailed information about your state and its programs. https://www.kidswaivers.org/full-list/
Just because your child has a genetic diagnosis, it does not mean he or she will automatically qualify. Each child will be assessed to determine if they are eligible. It is important to apply as soon as possible because there may be a waiting list for these programs.
