Things to Do While Waiting for a Medicaid Waiver

Medicaid Waivers are state Medicaid programs that provide long-term services and supports for people with disabilities, and who are elderly, to help them live in the community. If you haven’t already done so, get your child’s name on the Medicaid Waiver interest lists as soon as possible!

You can place your child’s name on all interest lists that may apply and choose between programs as they become available. Texas has seven waiver programs, and each one has its own interest list. Visit the Navigate Life Texas waivers page to find out how to add your child to these interest lists.

While your child’s name is on the interest lists, here are some things you can do to get help for your child:

• Go to YourTexasBenefits.com https://www.yourtexasbenefits.com/Learn/Home to find out about other state benefits you or your child may be eligible to receive. If you are applying for benefits for your child, fill out the application in your child’s name as though they were answering the questions.

• If your child is on the interest list and receives Medicaid, you may be able to get some help now through Community First Choice https://hhs.texas.gov/services/health/medicaid-chip/programs/childrens-health-insurance-program-chip/chip-comparison-charts/community-first-choice. This is NOT a Medicaid waiver program, but an entitlement program for personal attendance/habilitation services through the Medicaid+Star Plus, STAR Health, or STAR Kids program.
• Keep your contact information up to date on all interest lists. You should receive a letter or phone call once a year to confirm that you want to continue on the waiting list. If you don’t hear from the agency, call to check your status and/or update your contact information. If you move or change your contact information, be sure to call and let them know the new information as well.

• Do your research and learn all you can about the different waiver programs and the services they provide so that you can make informed decisions when your child’s name comes up. You can compare the services each waiver program offers on the HHSC website https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/resources/compare-long-term-services-supports-ltss-programs.

Be prepared for the big day when your child’s name reaches the top of the waiting list. Watch for our companion blog next month: Your child’s name just came up on the Medicaid waiver list. Now what?!

You can also find information on the Medicaid Waivers on this on this website.