Parenting a neurodivergent child can sometimes feel like navigating through a maze with no map. Especially when deciphering the intricacies of healthcare systems like Hawaii Medicaid. We’re here to help clear the fog and guide you through this complex system. We promise no jargon, just simple, straightforward information.
Before we dive deeper, let’s clarify what Hawaii Medicaid is. Simply put, it’s a healthcare program designed to provide coverage for low-income individuals and families. This includes families with neurodivergent kids. The program is a lifeline for many, covering the costs of essential therapies, treatments, and medications.
Now, you might wonder, “How do I know if my child is eligible?” Great question! Eligibility is determined by several factors, such as income, family size, and disability status. Your child’s diagnosis and the required care level are significant factors.
Applying for Hawaii Medicaid involves a bit of paperwork. You must provide detailed information about your child’s condition and financial situation. Don’t let this deter you. Yes, it’s a bit of a hassle, but it’s a necessary step towards securing the support your child needs.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 5/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 5/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 5/5 |
Now, let’s talk about Medicaid waivers. These programs allow states, including Hawaii, to ‘waive’ specific Medicaid rules. This flexibility means your child could have access to additional services not typically covered by regular Medicaid.
However, applying for a Medicaid waiver is a bit more complex. It involves an assessment of your child’s needs and may require additional documentation. And it’s important to note that there can be waiting lists for these waivers. So, it’s best to apply as soon as possible.
During your journey through the Hawaii Medicaid system, remember to tap into additional resources. Many organizations and support groups can provide advice, emotional support, and practical assistance. Most importantly, you’re not alone in this journey. There’s a whole community of parents navigating the same challenges, ready to lend a hand or a listening ear.
For example, Goally is here to support you and your neurodivergent child. Our learning tablets and apps are designed to help kids with thinking and learning differences thrive. They can supplement the therapies and treatments covered by Hawaii Medicaid, providing additional support in your child’s development.
To sum up, understanding and navigating Hawaii Medicaid can be challenging. Still, it’s a challenge you don’t have to face alone. With the right information and resources, you can secure your child’s support to thrive. Remember, every step you take on this journey is a testament to your dedication and love for your child. You’re doing an amazing job, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Looking for fun ways to help your child learn life skills? Try Goally! The Goally tablet comes with award-winning learning apps and video classes to help kids develop the skills they need to become independent with FUN & evidence-based practices.
Our apps teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more.
As your child develops new skills, you can increase the difficulty level of the tasks in the app to challenge and motivate them even further. This helps your child grow and progress at their own pace, while also keeping them engaged and excited about their development.
At Goally, we believe in the power of knowledge and community. We’re committed to providing the information you need and connecting you with a community of parents who understand your journey. Because together, we can navigate the maze of Hawaii Medicaid and secure the best possible care for our neurodivergent kids.
Circumstances/Diagnosis: Children and adults of all ages who are diagnosed with any type of disability (this includes autism). The state requires that individuals need at least an intermediate care facility level of care to qualify. This has a technical definition but essentially just 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. The only stipulation is that you may have to pay a premium for your first month of service. See more information on what you may have to pay here
You receive standard medicaid benefits and more. This means that you will be able to receive dental care, emergency and non-emergency transportation, inpatient and outpatient treatment, medical equipment, occupational therapy, pharmacy, physical therapy, vision. Check out this page for the additional specialty services that are offered.
Follow this guide
Call your local Developmental Disabilities Division
Hawaii has a fantastic waiver program. There are no waitlists and extensive services are offered to families with developmental disabilities. The route to getting these services is simple and easy to figure out with Hawaii’s great website. We think other states need to take a look at how well services are provided in this state as a case study.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/15/2023.
