Indiana’s Health & Wellness Waiver

Indiana Health and Wellness Waiver: A Guide for Caregivers

Understanding Medicaid Waivers

Medicaid Waivers offer flexibility to states in designing programs that provide home and community-based services (HCBS) to Medicaid recipients. These services allow individuals with disabilities and seniors to live independently at home instead of nursing facilities. Some waivers allow family members to be paid caregivers.

The Transition: Aged & Disabled to Health & Wellness Waiver

Previously, Indiana's Aged & Disabled Waiver (A&D Waiver) served individuals under 65 needing HCBS. Effective July 1, 2024, the A&D Waiver transitioned to the Health and Wellness Waiver (H&W Waiver) for this age group. This shift reflects the program's focus on overall well-being and independence for those with complex medical needs.

Qualifying for the Health and Wellness Waiver

• Age: Under 65 years old.

• Medicaid: Enrolled in and meet eligibility requirements for Indiana Medicaid.

• Level of Care: Need a level of care qualifying you for a nursing home placement, as determined by a healthcare professional.

Applying for the Health and Wellness Waiver (as of June 11, 2024)

The application process is being established, but similarities to the A&D Waiver process are expected, with potential improvements. Here's a likely scenario:

1. Contact your local Area Agency on Aging (AAA): They will guide you through the process.

2. Eligibility Determination: You'll need to meet the criteria mentioned above.

3. Functional Assessment: A healthcare professional will assess your needs.

4. Service Plan Development: If approved, a plan outlining your HCBS will be created.

Waitlist vs. No Waitlist

The A&D Waiver had a waitlist for those under 65. The H&W Waiver likely won't have one initially, but this could change depending on program popularity and funding.

Staying Informed

• Contact your local AAA for the latest application process information.

• Check the Indiana Medicaid website for H&W program updates: https://www.in.gov/medicaid/members/home-and-community-based-services/aged-and-disabled-waiver/

Important Note for Parents of Minor Children and Spouses

Under the H&W Waiver, parents and spouses can no longer be paid caregivers through the Attendant Care Program. Most will transition to Structured Family Caregiving Indiana.

Additional Resources

• Indiana Medicaid Waivers: https://www.in.gov/medicaid/members/home-and-community-based-services/aged-and-disabled-waiver/

• Paid Care as Indiana's Highest Paying H&W Waiver Provider for Structured Family Care: [Paid.care] (Disclaimer: not a government website)

• National Family Caregiver Support Program: http://acl.gov/programs/support-caregivers/national-family-caregiver-support-program

• Eldercare Locator: https://eldercare.acl.gov/