When you’re a parent of a neurodivergent kid, you’re not just a caregiver. You’re a detective, a negotiator, a cheerleader, and a scholar, all rolled into one. And when it comes to navigating the world of healthcare, you might feel like you need a degree in bureaucracy. That’s where we come in. We’re here to help you decode the enigma that is Montana Medicaid. So, let’s get started.
Montana Medicaid, in simple terms, is a health coverage program. It’s a partnership between the state and federal government to provide healthcare to folks who might not otherwise afford it. But here’s the twist: it also offers special waivers that can be a game-changer for families with neurodivergent kids.
These waivers allow Medicaid to fund services that aren’t usually covered. Think of them as secret passcodes unlocking extra levels in a video game. And for parents like you, these levels can lead to much-needed resources for your kids.
Now, let’s take a closer look at these waivers. Each one is like a different key, unlocking different services. And with Goally’s learning tablet for kids, these services can be more effective than ever. Here are the main ones you should know about:
Read more: What Qualifies a Child for Special Education?
Applying for Montana Medicaid might seem daunting, but it’s just a process. And like any process, it can be broken down into manageable steps. Here’s how you do it:
With Goally’s learning tablet for kids, keeping track of medical records can be a breeze. It’s just one more way Goally can make your life a little easier.
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 1 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 1 |
| Healthcare coverage | 3 |
Developmental Disabilities Program General Line — 406-444-2995
But what if your application is denied? It’s a setback, sure. But it’s not the end of the road. You have the right to appeal the decision. This means you can request a fair hearing where you can present more information or clear up any misunderstandings.
Remember, you’re not alone in this. There are resources and support available to help you navigate this process. And Goally is here to support you every step of the way.
Once you’ve unlocked Montana Medicaid, it’s time to make the most of it. Stay informed about the services covered under your waivers. Regularly review your kid’s needs and ensure they’re getting the services they need. And don’t hesitate to ask for help. Montana Medicaid has support staff ready to assist you.
With Goally’s learning tablet for kids, you can keep track of your kid’s progress and needs. It’s a handy tool to help you make the most of the services provided by Montana Medicaid.
Give your kid an independent future. Goally has 100+ video classes teaching life skills like “How to Choose a Restaurant,” “How to Interrupt Politely,” and “How to Get Ready for School.”
Goally takes kids on an adventure that includes interactive practice and checkpoints along the way! No web browsers, YouTube, or social media.
Parenting a neurodivergent kid is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs. And while the road may sometimes feel steep, remember that there are resources out there to help. Montana Medicaid is one such resource. So, take a deep breath, gather your documents, and take that first step. Your kid’s future is worth it.
And remember, Goally is here to support you and your kid. With our learning tablet for kids, we’re committed to making the journey a little easier and a lot more rewarding.
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. This just means that the individual is unable to get through their day without a lot of supervision. You can view more specific eligibility requirements HERE
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 a complete list of services and explanations of what is covered HERE.
Contact your Developmental Disabilities Program Regional Office
It takes about 3 years to get off the waiver waitlist in Montana. No parent should have to wait that long. Additionally their website has very little information on what the waiver actually does or how to apply for it. Please call your Developmental Disabilities Program Regional Office and rely on them to get the information you need. There is another medicaid waiver (Big Sky) that you may qualify for if your child has more intensive needs. The waitlist could be shorter and you would receive more services with this waiver.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/18/2023.
