As a parent of a neurodivergent kid, you’ve likely encountered the complex maze that is healthcare coverage. But don’t fret; we’re here to help you navigate one of the most valuable resources available – New Jersey Medicaid. This guide will provide clarity and help you access the benefits your child deserves.
First, let’s break down New Jersey Medicaid. It’s a program funded by the government that offers health coverage to people with low income. This includes some low-income adults, children, pregnant women, elderly adults, and people with disabilities. If you’re a parent of a neurodivergent kid, this can be a game-changer, providing access to essential services and therapies.
Eligibility for New Jersey Medicaid is based on several factors. These include income, family size, and disability status. The criteria for neurodivergent kids can seem complicated. Still, it’s important to remember that your child’s diagnosis, whether Autism, ADHD, or another learning difference, may qualify them for benefits.
So, how do you tap into these benefits? Enter Medicaid waivers. These waivers allow states to provide services beyond those typically covered by Medicaid. In other words, they can open doors to additional support for your child.
Read more: Best Autism Schools in New Jersey
Several types of waivers are available in New Jersey, each designed to meet different needs. For example, the Community Care Program provides services to individuals who would otherwise be in an institution, allowing them to live in their community. On the other hand, the Children’s System of Care offers behavioral health and intellectual/developmental disability services to children and youth.
Applying for New Jersey Medicaid and its waivers can feel like climbing a mountain. But don’t let the paperwork scare you. Here are some steps to guide you through the process:
Remember, Goally is here to support you through this process. Our team can provide guidance and help you navigate the complexities of the application process.
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 3/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 2/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 3/5 |
Once you’ve secured New Jersey Medicaid coverage for your child, it’s time to make the most of it. Use it to access therapies, services, and support to help your child thrive. And remember, you’re not alone in this journey. There are resources and communities out there ready to help and support you.
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.
For instance, Goally offers a learning tablet specifically designed for neurodivergent kids. Our apps can help manage routines, improve skills, and reduce parental stress. Plus, our team is always here to provide support and guidance. In short, navigating New Jersey Medicaid may seem overwhelming. Still, it can become a manageable task with the right information and resources. Remember, this isn’t just about securing healthcare coverage; it’s about securing a brighter, more supportive future for your child. You’ve got this!
Circumstances/Diagnosis: Children and adults of any age with any form of disability, Physical or Intellectual. New Jersey’s lone waiver covers all Intermediate Care Facility, Nursing Facility, Hospital
Income: Eligibility is determined by income a family’s total income must be at or below 355% of the federal poverty level to qualify for the comprehensive waiver. There is a medically needy provision that allows families to subtract medical bills and health insurance premiums to reach the monthly income threshold.
Coverage is determined by contracted health care companies. However, typically coverage plans extend New Jersey Medicaid services to include long term services and supports and expand home and community-based services.
To start the application process click here New Jersey’s Medicaid application is entirely online and run through the website NJfamilycare.com
For additional help and an overview of the process you can visit the Division of Developmental Disabilities
New Jersey’s waiver program is partially good and partially bad. They have one comprehensive waiver which is easy to locate however due to income requirements not accessible for everybody who needs it. Additionally, New Jersey licenses out their actual coverage to private healthcare companies making information about which services are covered hard to locate. Calling about billing/application is a pain and hard to do. I had to go through four different numbers before getting real answers.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2023. It was updated on 09/15/2023.
