The Louisiana Children’s Choice Waiver is a program that provides services and support to children with developmental disabilities. This waiver program is designed to assist families by offering necessary services and support within the community.
Below, you’ll learn more about the Children’s Choice Waiver program, its benefits, eligibility criteria, and the enrollment process.
What is the Louisiana Children’s Choice Waiver?
The Louisiana Children’s Choice (CC) Waiver is a program designed to provide support and services to eligible children with developmental disabilities. It is funded by Medicaid and administered by the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD).
How Do You Qualify for the Children’s Choice Waiver?
To qualify for the Children’s Choice Waiver in Louisiana, certain qualifications must be met. Below are the guidelines from the Louisiana Department of Health:
- It must be an individual of age 0 through 18 years.
- They must already be on a Medicaid program (or can qualify for one).
- The child must have a diagnosed developmental disability based on the latest SSI (Social Security Income) requirements.
- The disability requires the same level of care as someone in an Intermediate Care Facility for the Developmentally Disabled (ICF/DD). However, the level of care needs to be possible outside of an institution.
- They must also meet specific level of care criteria. The level of care determination helps to ensure that the children who need the most help receive the appropriate services.
- The child needs to have financial resources of less than $2,000.
How Do You Apply for the Children’s Choice Waiver?
To apply for the Children’s Choice Waiver, families must complete an application, which can be obtained from your local Human Services District/Authority office.
The application requires information about the child’s medical condition, level of care needs, and family income. Providing accurate and detailed information is important to ensure a thorough eligibility assessment.
Once the application is submitted, the OCDD will review it and supporting documents to determine if the child meets the eligibility requirements for the waiver program. If eligible, the child will be placed on the Developmental Disability Request for Services Registry (RFSR).
When added to the RFSR, the individual will undergo a screening process to gauge their care need. Upon approval, you can pick a support coordination agency to connect you with the right resources.
What are the Benefits of the Children’s Choice Waiver?
The waiver provides access to necessary Medicaid services and $16,660 annually in additional Children’s Choice Services. Below, you’ll find some potential uses of this money:
- Support coordination: The Children’s Choice waiver makes it mandatory for families to find a support coordinator to support them.
- Family training and support: This includes training on how to care for your child and additional support to help care for your child.
- Environmental accessibility adaptations: The funds can go to modifications on your hope to help them better navigate the space.
- Specialized medical supplies: If deemed medically necessary, you can use the funds to purchase medical equipment or supplies.
- Therapy: Mental health support can come in various ways, from counseling, art, aquatic, horseback riding, or music therapy.
These are just a few examples of the benefits of the waiver.
How Support Coordination Agencies Help Me With the CC?
Support coordinators can assist in developing an individualized plan, help individuals access services, and serve as advocates for individuals with the Children’s Choice Waiver. In short, support coordinators are dedicated to helping families navigate the waiver program and accessing the services their children need.
