Think of the wide, sweeping plains of North Dakota. Beautiful. Now, let’s swap that image with a maze of paperwork, healthcare terminology, and regulations. That’s the reality for many parents trying to understand North Dakota Medicaid for their neurodivergent kids. But don’t worry! We’re here to help you cut through the red tape and find the resources your child needs.
Let’s start with the basics. North Dakota Medicaid is a healthcare program that provides coverage for low-income individuals and families. This includes kids with thinking and learning differences. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. Different waivers cater to different needs, and it’s crucial to understand which one is best for your child.
For example, traditional Medicaid provides a broad range of services, from doctor visits to hospital stays. But, for kids with special needs, more is needed. That’s where Medicaid waivers come in. These waivers allow states to provide additional services to specific groups, such as neurodivergent kids.
North Dakota offers several waivers to benefit kids with thinking and learning differences. Each one is like a key, unlocking a different set of services. Here’s a quick rundown:
| Waiver | Services |
|---|---|
| Developmental Disabilities Waiver | Respite care, supported employment, specialized equipment |
| Aged and Disabled Waiver | Services for younger individuals with disabilities |
| Autism Spectrum Disorder Waiver | Behavioral therapy, family training |
Eligibility for these waivers is based on income, medical need, and, in some cases, age. For instance, the Autism Spectrum Disorder Waiver is only available to kids under 21. Applying for a waiver involves an assessment of your child’s needs, so be ready for a thorough process. Remember, the goal is to ensure your child gets the best possible care.
| Goally Waiver Scorecard | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 2/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 4/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 3/5 |
Developmental Disability Regional Offices contacts can be found here
Now that you understand North Dakota Medicaid and its waivers, how do you navigate this complex system? Here are some tips:
And remember, Goally is here to help, too. Our learning tablet for kids and apps are to support your child’s unique learning needs, complementing the services provided by North Dakota Medicaid.
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It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when dealing with North Dakota Medicaid, but remember, you’re not alone. There are resources and support available to help you navigate this maze. Above all, keep your child’s needs at the forefront. Your dedication and advocacy are the most powerful tools in securing the care your neurodivergent kid deserves.
While North Dakota Medicaid may seem like a complex labyrinth, you can navigate it successfully with the right information and support. And remember, the goal is to get through the maze and find the best possible care for your child. Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and with the right support, your neurodivergent kid can do just that. So, please take a deep breath, and let’s navigate this together.
Circumstances/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 at least an intermediate care facility level of care to qualify. There is a technical definition for this but it 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.
Check out this comprehensive list of services with explanations.
Contact your local Human and Health Services office.
Take a look at this guide to get a better understanding of how the application process works.
North Dakota has a decent waiver process. Currently there is only a tiny waitlist for services that shouldn’t stop you from receiving benefits shortly after you determine eligibility. The waiver program is fairly standard apart from that great trait, with family supports and transition/employment services as the child gets older.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/18/2023.
