Life as a parent of a neurodivergent kid can feel like navigating a labyrinth. Every turn introduces a new challenge, especially when it comes to healthcare. Fear not, brave parent-warrior, Alabama Medicaid can be your guiding light. This guide is your trusty compass, leading you through the twists and turns of Alabama Medicaid and how it can be a game-changer for your family.
Before we dive deeper, let’s first untangle what Alabama Medicaid is. It’s a combined state and federal program providing health coverage for low-income individuals. This includes some low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. It’s a safety net for families who struggle to cover healthcare costs.
But what does this mean for you, the parent of a neurodivergent kid? It’s more than just a healthcare program—it’s a lifeline. Alabama Medicaid provides various services crucial for kids with thinking and learning differences. This includes doctor visits, hospital care, mental health services, and prescription drugs. That’s a significant relief, right?
Read more: Does My Child Qualify for Medicaid?
Alabama Medicaid is more than just a healthcare program—it’s a support system for parents of neurodivergent kids. Here’s how it works:
But wait, there’s more! Alabama Medicaid also offers the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic, and Treatment (EPSDT) Program. This program ensures that children under 21 receive appropriate preventive, dental, mental health, developmental, and specialty services. In short, Alabama Medicaid is a godsend for parents of neurodivergent kids.
Read more: Autism Schools in Alabama | Parent Guide
Applying for Alabama Medicaid might seem like trying to crack a secret code. But don’t worry, we’ve got your back. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
After applying, you’ll receive a notice of the decision. If approved, coverage typically starts from the date of application. It’s like unlocking a new level in a game, except this time, the prize is your child’s health and well-being.
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 1 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 1 |
| Healthcare coverage | 3 |
Once you’ve secured Alabama Medicaid for your child, the next step is to maximize its benefits. Understanding what services are going to cover your expenses, finding providers who accept Medicaid, and advocating for your child’s needs is crucial. Remember, you’re not just a parent—you’re your child’s biggest advocate.
And let’s remember Goally. This learning tablet for kids is to help neurodivergent kids thrive. With apps that support skill-building and routine-setting, Goally can be a great complement to the services provided by Alabama Medicaid.
For parents of neurodivergent kids, Alabama Medicaid isn’t just a healthcare program—it’s a beacon of hope. It provides much-needed support and resources, making the journey less daunting. So, while the process may seem overwhelming, remember you’re not alone. Resources and support systems are in place to help you navigate the healthcare maze. And at the end of the day, it’s all worth it for your child’s well-being.
And remember, Goally is here to support you and your child on this journey. With our learning tablet and apps designed for neurodivergent kids, we’re committed to helping your child thrive.
Circumstance/Diagnosis: Anyone with an IQ score below 70, who is over the age of 3 and requires an intermediate amount of care can apply. Alabama requires applicants to be considered to be “medically retarded” (an outdated term the Goally team doesn’t support using) and an IQ score below 70 is their benchmark.
Income: The income limit is $2,349 per month, however, only child income is considered… so unless your child is making money, you should qualify for this.
If you qualify for this program your coverage will include multiple services. employment support and transportation, personal care, habilitation, adult companion, career counseling, community experience, community specialist services, crisis intervention, housing stabilization, skilled nursing, specialized medical equipment, specialized medical supplies, and speech/language therapy.
There is no ability to apply online. Visit the Intellectual Disabilities Call Center of the Alabama Department of Mental Health follow steps listed and call 1-800-361-4491. Working with your county regional community center could also be helpful. A detailed list of each county’s office number can be found on this Brochure
We think Alabama’s waiver program is outdated with strict requirements for enrollment. They only have waivers covering individuals who require a hospital or nursing home level of care, or for people who meet the state’s requirement of having a lower than 70 IQ. This makes a lot of applicants ineligible for the waiver program and leaves a lot of people who need Medicaid services without them. Applying for an Alabama Medicaid waiver is a difficult process, and requires multiple conversations over the phone. Be prepared for this if you plan on applying for Alabama Medicaid waivers
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/17/2023.
