The Louisiana New Opportunities Waiver offers various services to support individuals with developmental disabilities in living more independently. However, understanding how to use these benefits can be overwhelming. Below, you’ll learn more about Louisiana NOW, how to qualify and apply for it, and the benefits you can expect from getting it.
What is the Louisiana New Opportunities Waiver?
The Louisiana New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) is designed to support individuals with developmental disabilities in living a more independent and fulfilling life. The purpose of the NOW waiver is to provide comprehensive services to enhance the quality of life for eligible individuals.
The NOW waiver replaces the MRDD (Mental Retardation and Developmental Disabilities) waiver in Louisiana, aiming to incorporate the principles of self-determination in supporting individuals with developmental disabilities. This support requires people to meet some qualifications.
How Do You Qualify for the New Opportunities Waiver?
To qualify for the New Opportunities Waiver (NOW), individuals must meet certain eligibility criteria. Here’s a quick list of these qualifications:
- Qualified applicants must meet Medicaid eligibility requirements.
- Individuals must have a developmental disability (Defined in Revised Statue 25:451.2 Paragraph (12))
- Applicants must need the level of care provided in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-ID).
- People who apply need an OCDD (Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities) approval statement
- They cannot have their needs met by another waiver.
The eligibility determination process for the NOW waiver involves simultaneous medical and financial determinations. The goal is to ensure that individuals receive the necessary care and support while also considering their financial resources.
How Do You Apply for the New Opportunities Waiver?
Here are the steps involved and the necessary forms or documentation that may be needed:
- Request for Services Registry (RFSR): Individuals must add their names to the RFSR, a list of people seeking waiver services. This can be done by contacting the local Human Services District with the eligibility requirements from above met.
- Screening Process: Once individuals are on the RFSR and meet the eligibility criteria, they undergo a screening process to determine their level of need.
- Wait: Individuals need to wait until a waiver slot opens up.
- Determinations are Made: Once a slot opens up and there are no others with more need, the office will review to verify that the person meets the requirements for the NOW.
By following these steps and providing the required forms and documentation, individuals can apply for the New Opportunities Waiver in Louisiana.
What are the Benefits You Get With the NOW Waiver?
The NOW (New Opportunities Waiver) program in Louisiana offers a range of benefits to individuals with developmental disabilities, aiming to improve their quality of life and provide a least restrictive treatment alternative. Here are some of the services and supports provided through the NOW Waiver:
- Individual Family Support Day and Night (IFS): This service assists individuals in their daily activities, promoting independence and enhancing their overall well-being. It includes assistance with personal care, household tasks, transportation, and community integration.
- Center-Based Respite: Individuals receiving the NOW Waiver can access periodic breaks for their families or caregivers through center-based respite services. This allows individuals to engage in activities and interactions outside their usual environment while their caregivers have time for themselves.
- Community Integration & Development: The NOW Waiver supports individuals fully participating in community life. It assists with acquiring and maintaining social and adaptive skills necessary for community integration, such as improving communication, accessing community resources, and developing relationships.
- Residential Rehabilitation-Supported Living: This service enables individuals to live in the community by providing necessary support for independent living. It includes assistance with daily living tasks, managing finances, medication management, and accessing community-based services.
Through these services and supports, the NOW Waiver seeks to enhance the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities, promoting their inclusion and empowerment within their communities.
Wrap Up
The NOW Waiver offers services to enhance the quality of life for those with developmental disabilities. From the Individual Family Support-Day and Night (IFS) service, offering personalized assistance in daily activities, to the Center-Based Respite, providing temporary breaks for caregivers, individuals receive the necessary support to live more independently.
