Hey there, parents of neurodivergent kids. We get it. The countless sleepless nights, the daily hurdles, and the constant search for resources to support your child’s unique needs. We’re here to illuminate one such resource: Arizona Medicaid. This program can be a beacon of hope, providing essential services and support for your child. We will demystify the program, explain eligibility, and guide you through the application process.
First, let’s break down what Arizona Medicaid is. It’s a combined state and federal program that provides health coverage for eligible low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. For neurodivergent kids, this coverage can be a game-changer, providing access to therapies, medications, and other vital supports.
But, there’s more to it. Arizona Medicaid also offers waivers. These programs provide additional services to specific groups of individuals beyond what is covered under regular Medicaid. For example, the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) waiver provides long-term care services to individuals who are elderly or have physical or developmental disabilities.
Now, onto the big question, “Is my child eligible?” Arizona Medicaid’s eligibility and waivers are determined based on income, residency, and disability status. Here’s a quick rundown:
Remember, every case is unique. So, consulting with a Medicaid expert or advocate is crucial to fully understanding your child’s eligibility.
Read more: Autism Centers in Arizona | Parent Guide
Applying for Arizona Medicaid can seem like a daunting task. But don’t fret; we’re here to help. You can apply online, by mail, or in person at a local Department of Economic Security (DES) office. The application will require information about your income, assets, and medical condition. Following that, there may be an assessment to determine the level of care your child needs.
Here are some tips to help you navigate the application process:
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 3/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 4/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 3/5 |
Arizona Medicaid covers many services that can benefit neurodivergent kids. This may include occupational therapy, speech therapy, physical therapy, mental health services, and prescription medications. On the other hand, some waivers may cover home and community-based services, such as respite care, personal care services, and home modifications.
Here’s a handy table summarizing some of the services covered:
| Service | Description |
|---|---|
| Occupational Therapy | Helps improve fine motor skills and daily living skills |
| Speech Therapy | Assists with communication and swallowing disorders |
| Physical Therapy | Improves gross motor skills and mobility |
| Mental Health Services | Includes counseling and therapy for mental health conditions |
| Prescription Medications | Covers necessary medications prescribed by a doctor |
Finally, it’s crucial to understand your rights under Arizona Medicaid. You have the right to appeal any decision made by the program, including eligibility determinations and service denials. Likewise, you have the right to choose your child’s healthcare providers within the network and to receive necessary and appropriate care.
it’s important to know that you’re not alone in this journey. Organizations like Goally are here to support you and your child, providing tools and resources to help manage your child’s unique needs.
Does your child need some extra guidance on building essential life skills? Goally’s skill building tablet for kids includes a TV app that has the most robust video library of skills training videos for kids. Ranging from content like “How to Brush Your Teeth” to “How to Make Friends at School,” we have dozens of interactive video lessons for kids with thinking and learning differences.
HERE’s a video explaining how to works.
Parenting a neurodivergent child is a journey like no other. It’s filled with unique challenges but also moments of pure joy. While it can be overwhelming, remember that resources are available to help, and you are not alone. Arizona Medicaid is one such resource, providing a lifeline of support for your child’s needs. It’s a journey, and while it may have its bumps, the destination – a healthier, happier life for your child – is worth every step.
Circumstance/Diagnosis: Any child or adult who is diagnosed with either an intellectual and/or developmental disability (this includes autism). The state requires that individuals need an intermediate care facility level of care to qualify. There is a technical definition for this, but it essentially means that the individual is unable to get through their day without a lot of supervision.
Income: Income eligibility is only based on the child’s income and not the parents income. This means that your child is financially eligible for the waiver if they don’t have an income.
You can view Arizona’s eligibility packet HERE
You will be eligible to receive services like attendant care, day treatment and training, employment services and supports, habilitation, home health aide, home modifications, home nursing, housekeeping, medical services, respiratory therapy, therapies, and transportation.
When you become a DDD member you will meet with a support coordinator and get services based off which category you fall into HERE
Call the DDD Customer Support Info Line at 1 (844) 770-9500
Arizona has a great waiver program in which getting access to services is super easy and doesn’t take a long time. Arizona doesn’t have a traditional waiver that you need to be one, rather they just determine your eligibility and assign a support coordinator to get you the local services you need. This is a fantastic system of getting families services quickly and efficiently.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/15/2023.
