Parenting is no walk in the park, and when your kid is neurodivergent, it can feel like you’re climbing a mountain without a map. But there’s a lifeline available: Delaware Medicaid. This guide will shed light on the Delaware Medicaid waiver process, helping you secure the resources your child needs.
Let’s start by getting a handle on Delaware Medicaid. Simply put, it’s a health coverage program, a joint venture between the state and federal government. The main goal? To provide necessary medical services to low-income individuals and families, including those with neurodivergent kids. However, it’s not a simple ‘sign here and you’re in’ deal. There’s a process to it, and we’re here to help you navigate it.
you might wonder, “What’s the catch?” Well, like most good things, Delaware Medicaid comes with its own set of rules. Eligibility criteria include factors like your family’s income, household size, and child’s specific needs. And, of course, your child’s diagnosis and the level of care they require are also part of the equation.
Applying for Delaware Medicaid can feel like assembling a puzzle. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. The first step is gathering all the necessary documentation. This includes proof of income, medical records, and proof of residency. Next, you’ll need to complete the application form, which you can do online or by mail. Once that’s done, you’ll have an interview with a caseworker who will assess your child’s needs and your eligibility.
Feeling overwhelmed? Don’t be. Think of it as a quest, and you’re the hero. And remember, you’re not alone. Organizations like Goally are here to support you every step of the way.
Read more: Best Schools for Autism in Delaware | Parent Guide
Autism Delaware can help you navigate through Delaware’s available services.
Delaware Family Voices provides advice and information by families for families.
The ARC of Delaware can help you with all things related to autism from advocacy to employment and they have community events.
Contact information from Developmental Disabilities Services
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 1/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 5/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 4/5 |
So, why should you go through all this trouble? Well, Delaware Medicaid is more than just a health coverage program. It’s a support system for families with neurodivergent kids. It covers various services, from routine check-ups and prescriptions to mental health services and specialized therapies. In short, it can be a game-changer, helping to ease the financial strain of providing for a child with unique needs.
But the benefits of Delaware Medicaid don’t stop at healthcare. It’s also about supporting your child’s overall development. Services like speech, occupational, and physical therapy can be covered. These services can help your child develop the skills they need to thrive. Plus, Goally’s learning tablet for kids can complement these services, offering additional support for your child’s development.
Delaware Medicaid is not just about providing services. It’s also about helping you navigate the complex world of healthcare. Case management services can help you coordinate your child’s care and maximize available resources. It’s like having a personal guide in the healthcare wilderness.
Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. You can ensure your child gets the necessary care with the right tools and support, like Delaware Medicaid and Goally.
Understanding Delaware Medicaid is just the first step. To truly benefit from this program, you must know how to make it work. That means understanding your rights, advocating for your child, and proactively seeking the services your child needs.
Read more: How to Help a Child With a Learning Disability
Every parent of a neurodivergent child should know their rights. You can appeal decisions, request a fair hearing, and receive services in your preferred language. Most importantly, you have the right to be treated with respect and dignity. It’s your child’s future we’re talking about here, and you deserve to have a say in it.
Being your child’s advocate is crucial. It would help if you were your child’s biggest cheerleader. This might mean pushing for additional services, challenging decisions, or ensuring your child’s voice is heard. And remember, Goally is here to support you in this advocacy journey.
Finally, be proactive. Don’t wait for services to come to you. Seek them out. Research what’s available, ask questions, be bold, and ask for help. After all, your child’s future is at stake, and you’re the best person to fight for it.
Delaware Medicaid can be a lifeline for families with neurodivergent kids. It provides access to vital services and supports that can make a real difference in your child’s life. But remember, it’s up to you to make the most of it. By understanding the system, knowing your rights, and advocating for your child, you can ensure they get the support they need to thrive. And with Goally by your side, you’re not alone in this journey. After all, every child deserves the chance to reach their full potential.
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.
Circumstance/Diagnosis: Children and adults older than 12 who are 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. This just means that the individual is unable to get through their day without a lot of supervision. Click Here for DDDS Eligibility Criteria
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 earn under $2,313 a month.
Day Habilitation, Prevocational Services, Supported Employment – Individual, Supported Employment – Group, Personal Care, Respite, Assistive Technology (not otherwise covered by Medicaid), Behavioral Consultation, Nursing Consultation, Community Transition Home, Vehicle Adaptations, Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies (not otherwise covered by Medicaid), Residential Services, Supported Living
Contact the Developmental Disabilities Services at 1-866-552-5758
Finding actual information about these waivers on Delaware’s website is elusive. That seems to be because Developmental Disabilities Services offers a wider range of services than just these waivers so they want you to call your local Community Service Office. We recommend that you call just to get a better understanding of your available services. Delaware is also exceptional because they have no waitlist for services which is something that 80% of states tend to struggle with.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/14/2023.
