The Louisiana Supports Waiver program provides vocational and community-based opportunities for people with developmental or intellectual disabilities. Those over 18 can receive numerous benefits, but navigating it can be tricky. This article will explore the benefits of the Louisiana Supports Waiver, the eligibility criteria to qualify for the waiver services, and the application process.
What is the Louisiana Supports Waiver (SW)?
The Louisiana Supports Waiver (SW) program is designed to provide support and services to individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. It aims to promote community integration, enhance independence, and improve the quality of life for waiver participants.
The program enables those normally in a long-term care facility to pursue meaningful lives outside of this environment. But first, individuals need to qualify for the program.
Who Qualifies for the Louisiana Supports Waiver?
Individuals must meet certain criteria to be eligible for the Louisiana Supports Waiver. Below is a list of those qualifications:
- Meet Louisiana’s definition of developmental disability. This includes functional limitations in at least three areas: self-care, receptive and expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, capacity for independent living, and economic self-sufficiency.
- Meet eligibility requirements to receive Medicaid.
- 18 years or older.
- Individuals must have a Statement of Approval from the OCDD indicating they meet the eligibility criteria for the Supports Waiver. This statement is obtained through the eligibility determination process.
- Current residents of the State of Louisiana.
Priority Groups Who Receive the Louisiana SW Waiver
ROW waivers are given to those in the most need. These groups have been defined as the following:
- Individuals who currently receive services through the Adult Day Health Care and Community Choices Wavers.
- Those residing in an ICF-ID (Intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities)
- People with the earliest registry dates and the highest level of need.
- Others residing in an ICF-ID who voluntarily want to transition into a home.
How Do You Apply for the Louisiana Supports Waiver?
To apply for the Louisiana Supports Waiver, individuals must meet the eligibility requirements above and go to their local Human Services District or Authority.
Much like other waivers, individuals who are eligible for these services are added to the Request for Services Registry (RFSR). Based on the priority list and their level of need, these individuals will be screened to determine their approval.
The application does not begin until the program has an available slot. It is at this time that the governing bodies will verify that they meet the above criteria.
What are the Benefits and Services of the Louisiana Supports Waiver?
The Louisiana Supports Waiver provides various benefits and services to individuals with developmental disabilities. These services are designed to support individuals in their quest for independence and enhance their quality of life. Here are some of the key benefits and services offered through the Louisiana Supports Waiver:
- Support Coordination: Provides guidance and individual case management for those enrolled in the program. Support coordinators are available to help individuals navigate the waiver process and access needed services.
- Employment: Supports individuals in community-based employment who require help to obtain and retain a job. This includes both short-and long-term employment support for both full- and part-time work.
- Habitation: Support individuals in getting the skills necessary to engage in self-help and socialization to better reside in a home or community setting. This can include training in tasks like doing the laundry, cleaning the house, and shopping for groceries.
- Transition: Provides support for those transitioning into permanent supportive housing or their own home. This is a process that prepares individuals who are preparing to leave an institution.
- Personal Emergency Response System (PERS): An electronic device that enables beneficiaries (those who support the person with disabilities) to help in an emergency. For example, the device could be a help button.
These are just some of the benefits you get with the SW.
How Does Support Coordination Help With The Supports Waiver?
Support coordination is crucial in helping individuals navigate the Louisiana Supports Waiver program. A Community Support Coordinator (CSC) is responsible for guiding, educating, and assisting participants in making informed planning decisions for services and supports.
