New year, new health goals! Most of us are looking to improve our health in 2025, and if you are, now is the time to set your goals. But this time around, be sure to make them realistic.
The good news is that you’re not alone in your pursuit of better health; Louisiana Medicaid waivers can help tremendously. Read on as we explore how LA Medicaid waivers support health goals, tips for realistic goal setting, and more.
How Medicaid Waivers Support Health Goals
Goal setting isn’t always easy, especially if you’re not in the best health situation. Those with chronic health problems, disabilities, or complex health needs are up against enormous challenges. Thankfully, Medicaid waivers provide some much-needed assistance in this area. Here are a few ways Medicaid waivers support health goals:
- Home and Community based services (HCBS) waivers enable beneficiaries to get the care they need outside of institutions like nursing homes when feasible. Healthcare arrangements like these are great for those hoping to regain their mobility or stay out of the hospital setting.
- Specialized services and therapy help Medicaid waiver recipients improve their health in various ways. Having access to assistance in the form of speech therapy, nursing care, behavioral health services, and more can lead to lasting health gains.
- Support coordinator assistance brings beneficiaries closer to their health goals. Support coordinators answer questions about Medicaid waivers, interact with different healthcare personnel to coordinate care, and more. These professionals break down barriers to care, bringing members that much closer to their health goals.
Setting Realistic Health Goals
Are your health goals typically on the loftier side? Do yourself a favor and make them realistic – keep the below tips in mind during goal-setting:
- Always start with something small and build upon it. Going too big initially could result in burnout.
- Don’t try to be perfect. Doing so will only make you frustrated and more likely to quit.
- Think about your long-term goals and model your small goals after them.
- As you evolve, adjust your health goals accordingly. Your goals should change with you.
- Consider your lifestyle and limitations when setting goals. You don’t want to set a goal you have little chance of achieving.
Use Your Support Coordinator to Support Your Health Goals
When it comes to using your Louisiana Medicaid waiver, your main gateway to assistance is your support coordinator. They help you create a Plan of Care (POC), which aims to support your personal health goals. If you ever have questions, need to request more services from Medicaid Louisiana, or need assistance with another health-related concern, your support coordinator is available by phone or email. Use them as needed!
