Have you been looking for state-provided assistance for a child living with one or more developmental disabilities? There are several Louisiana Medicaid waivers that can provide specialized support and care for them. And the first step is learning all you can about your child’s options. In this article, we’ll share three Louisiana Medicaid waivers designed for children with disabilities.
LA Children’s Choice Waiver (CCW) – 0 to 20 years old
The Louisiana Children’s Choice Waiver (CCW) was established in 2001 to ensure children from 0 to 20 years old with developmental disabilities could get the support they need to live full lives. Recipients of this waiver must be currently living at home with family. Some of the services children receive under this waiver include:
- Family support
- Supportive therapies
- Family training
- Center-based respite care
- Special supplies and equipment
- Permanent housing assistance
- And more
The maximum yearly benefit amount is $20,200 at the time of this writing.
Learn about the CCW Medicaid waiver eligibility requirements, application instructions, and more.
LA New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) – Ages 3 and Up
People of all ages with developmental disabilities could benefit from the Louisiana New Opportunities Waiver. Since 2003, the waiver program has been instrumental in helping youth with developmental disabilities obtain supplemental support within the family and in the community. Some of the main services these plans afford children three and up include:
- Substitute family care
- Supported living
- Nursing services
- Professional services
- Transitional support
- Respite care
- Community integration and development
- And more
This waiver is not for ongoing custodial care – it’s more for activity-focused services.
Learn more about the NOW Medicaid waiver and how to access it here.
LA Residential Options Waiver – All Ages
With the Louisiana Residential Options Waiver, your family could receive support to ease the struggles surrounding your child’s developmental disability. Services and care are centered around helping your child thrive without having to be admitted into institutions like nursing homes. Services and benefits are doled out based on priority groups. Benefits of the waiver include but are not limited to:
- Center-based respite care
- Shared living
- Companion care
- Transition services
- Personal emergency response system
- And more
Read this article to get more familiar with the ROW Medicaid waiver and learn how to access its benefits.
How to Get an LA Medicaid Waiver for Your Child
The first step in getting an LA Medicaid waiver for your child would be to apply. The application process differs depending on the waiver you’re pursuing, but if you use the hyperlinked resources above, you’ll find all the information you need to get started. In most cases, you’ll need to reach out to your local human services district/authority. After you do so, the staff there will take you through the process.
After applying, you’ll receive a notification of Medicaid’s decision in the form of a letter. The letter will have the next steps laid out for you.
Additional Assistance is Available Through Support Coordination
Jumping through Medicaid’s hoops can be more than a notion, and that’s a big reason why support coordination professionals are so important. If you feel lost or need help during your Medicaid waiver journey, contact a support coordinator for assistance. They help to tailor your child’s care plan to their unique needs, answer questions, and ensure you’re getting the most out of your benefits.
