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Big Changes Coming: Indiana's Aged and Disabled Waiver Transition

JR Ricker - Head of Care at Paid.care

Hoosier families caring for loved ones with disabilities or age-related needs should be aware of important changes coming to the state's Aged and Disabled (A&D) Waiver program. As of July 1st, 2024, the A&D Waiver will be divided into two new programs: the Pathways Waiver and the Health and Wellness Waiver.

What is the A&D Waiver and Why Does it Matter?

The A&D Waiver is a Medicaid program that allows individuals to receive home and community-based services (HCBS) instead of residing in a nursing facility. This empowers them to live independently with dignity. HCBS services can include assistance with daily living tasks like bathing, dressing, and medication management.

Eligibility for HCBS Programs

To be eligible for HCBS programs in Indiana, individuals must meet specific criteria. They must be aged, blind, or disabled, have a documented need for nursing facility level of care, and meet income limitations. The level of care assessment considers factors like complex medical conditions, reliance on medical equipment, and the need for what’s considered “nursing home level of care” by the state.

Changes To Age & Disabled Waiver’s Programs

The most significant shift will impact families caring for children with disabilities. Previously, parents could be paid caregivers through the A&D Waiver program. Under the new Pathways Waiver, parents will no longer be eligible to provide this type of care after July 1st.

Here's a breakdown of allowable caregivers under the new programs:

  • Pathways Waiver (for ages 60 and older):

    • Changes for seniors will not be that significant outside of the fact that Indiana Medicaid and families are now partnered with Managed Care Entities under the Pathways Waiver.

    • Parents cannot provide attendant care services, but they can offer structured family care. Other relatives, stepparents, and spouses may be eligible to provide attendant care services.

  • Health and Wellness Waiver (for individuals under 60):

    • Parents cannot provide attendant care services to their minor children. However, stepparents, other relatives, and individuals meeting specific criteria can be approved for attendant care. Biological or adoptive parents, guardians, and spouses will be transitioning to the Structured Family Caregiving Indiana program.

What Indiana State Paid Caregivers Should Do Now?

If you or someone you know is currently receiving care through the A&D Waiver, it's crucial to reach out to your waiver case manager. They can help you understand the transition process, determine eligibility under the new programs, and identify alternative care arrangements if needed.

If you want to learn more about the changes from Paid.care’s care experts, visit our Indiana caregiver page to see a breakdown of the Age & Disabled Waiver and what pay rates we offer to parents that need to switch to Structured Family Caregiving in Indiana.

Here are some resources for further information:

Remember, the deadline for these changes is July 1st, 2024. Proactive planning will ensure a smooth transition for families depending on HCBS services.