Indiana Medicaid Waiver Waiting List (Including Good News!)
Hoosier caregivers, we've got important information regarding the Indiana Medicaid Waiver program for home and community-based services (HCBS). Here at Paid.care, we understand the critical role you play in supporting loved ones, and staying informed about program changes is essential.
Changes to the Aged and Disabled Waiver
The Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) recently announced that the Aged and Disabled Waiver program, a popular option for long-term care, has reached capacity and will now utilize a waiting list. This means new applicants may experience a delay in receiving home care services through this specific waiver.
The Aged and Disabled Waiver is designed to support individuals aged 65 and over, or those with disabilities of any age, who require assistance with daily living activities but prefer to remain living at home or in a community setting rather than a nursing facility.
Here's the good news! This change paves the way for a more streamlined system. Beginning July 1st, 2024, all families will transition from the Aged & Disabled Waiver to either the Pathways Waiver (individuals over 60) or the Health & Wellness Waiver (individuals under 60).
“There is no indication of a waitlist for Pathways. The objective (of Pathways) is to bring as many folks over to HCBS services as possible. So, given that as a strategy, we don’t expect any limitations on Pathways at this point.”
What does this mean for you?
This transition to Managed Care Entities (MCEs) is expected to eliminate waiting lists for HCBS programs like paid family caregiving. Under the new system, families seeking to become paid caregivers through HCBS will likely be able to access services more quickly through their assigned MCE in collaboration with a home care agency like Paid.care.
Understanding Medicaid Waivers in Indiana
Medicaid waivers are federal programs administered by states that offer an alternative to nursing facility care for individuals who need assistance with daily living activities. Indiana offers several different Medicaid waiver programs, each with its own eligibility criteria and benefits. Here's a quick overview of some of the most common waivers:
Aged and Disabled Waiver (AD Waiver): As mentioned earlier, this waiver is specifically designed for individuals aged 65 and over, or those with disabilities of any age, who require assistance with daily living activities but prefer to remain living at home or in a community setting.
Pathways Waiver: This waiver is for individuals over 60 years old who require HCBS services to remain living at home or in the community. It start July 1st, 2024.
Health & Wellness Waiver: This waiver is for individuals under 60 years old with disabilities who require HCBS services to remain living at home or in the community. It also starts July 1st, 2024.
Family Supports Waiver: This waiver provides support for children with disabilities and their families to help them live in the community and avoid institutional care.
Community Integration Waiver: This waiver is designed to help individuals with disabilities transition from nursing facilities back into the community and live independently.
Adult Day Waiver: This waiver provides support for individuals with disabilities to participate in social and therapeutic activities in a community setting during the day.
Considering Your Options
If you are a caregiver for a loved one in Indiana and are considering applying for a Medicaid waiver program, it's important to understand the different options available and which one might be the best fit for your situation.
Here are some resources that can help you navigate the process:
Arc of Indiana: The Arc of Indiana is a great resource for information on all aspects of disability, including Medicaid waivers. They have a dedicated webpage highlighting all recent and upcoming Medicaid Waiver Changes: https://www.arcind.org/share-your-story-2/
Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA): The FSSA website (https://www.in.gov fssa ddrs) provides information on all Indiana Medicaid waiver programs, including eligibility criteria, application processes, and contact information for your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA).
How Paid.care Can Help
At Paid.care, we are committed to supporting Indiana families navigating the ever-changing landscape of home care options. We have a team of experienced care professionals who can help you with the following:
Understand the New MCE System and Indiana Medicaid Waiver Waiting List: We can explain the transition to Managed Care Entities and how it will impact your ability to access HCBS services like paid family caregiving.
Determine the Best Waiver Program: We can help you understand the different Indiana Medicaid waiver programs and determine which one might be the best fit for your loved one's needs and your family situation, specifically with the following A&D, Pathways, or H&W Waiver programs:
Navigate the Application Process: We can guide you through the application process for the chosen waiver program and answer any questions you may have along the way.
Become a Paid Family Caregiver: If you already have an approved Medicaid Waiver Application and have the Age & Disabled Waiver, we can get you paid now. If you’re currently on the wait list, fear not, because starting July 1st we’ll on the right path through either the Pathways or H&W Waiver.
If you qualify and wish to become a paid caregiver for your loved one, Paid.care can connect you with opportunities that offer competitive wages and benefits.
Unlike some agencies, Paid.care is committed to paying the highest rates & benefits for family caregivers in the state of Indiana. This ensures you are valued and well-compensated for the important work you do in caring for your loved one.
