Parenting a neurodivergent kid can sometimes feel like navigating a maze with no map. But what if there was a guide to help you through? Enter the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio. This program is a lifeline for many families, providing much-needed support for kids with thinking and learning differences. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and explore this program together.
First, let’s clarify what the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio is all about. It’s a joint initiative funded by the state and federal governments. It is designed to support individuals with disabilities, including our neurodivergent kids. The term ‘waiver’ comes into play because it waives the usual income and resource rules, making it possible for more families to qualify.
Why does this matter to you? Well, raising a neurodivergent kid can come with significant costs. From therapy sessions to specialized equipment and respite care, the expenses can pile up. The Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio can help lighten this financial load, ensuring your kid gets the resources they need to flourish.
Read more: Autism Support Groups Columbus Ohio
You’re probably asking, “Can my family benefit from this?” To be eligible for the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio, your kid needs to have a diagnosed disability that affects their daily functioning. While family income and resources are considered, the rules are more flexible than traditional Medicaid, allowing more families to qualify.
For example, let’s say you’re a single parent with an annual income of $50,000, and you have a child with autism. Even though your income might disqualify you from traditional Medicaid, you could still qualify for the waiver program. It’s all about providing support to those who need it most.
So, what services are covered under this program? The Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio covers a broad spectrum of services. These can include therapy sessions, respite care, home modifications, and even certain types of specialized equipment. In short, it’s a comprehensive support system for your neurodivergent kid.
Think of it like a toolbox. You have various tools at your disposal to help your kid thrive. Whether it’s a hammer (therapy), a screwdriver (respite care), or a wrench (home modifications), the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio provides you with the tools you need.
Ready to take the plunge? The application process involves a few steps. The first port of call is your local County Board of Developmental Disabilities. They’ll guide you through the application and help determine your kid’s eligibility. And remember, it’s okay to ask for help or clarification during this process.
| Criteria | Score |
|---|---|
| Website clarity and ease of navigation | 3/5 |
| Access and requirements of qualification | 0/5 |
| Healthcare coverage | 4/5 |
Here’s a handy tip: there can be a waitlist for the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio. But don’t let this put you off. The sooner you apply, the sooner your kid can get the support they need. And while you’re waiting, there are other resources and support systems you can tap into, like Goally’s learning tablet for kids.
Read more: Medicaid Waivers by State | A Guide for Parents
Once you’re part of the program, making the most of it is crucial. That means understanding what’s covered and how to access services. Above all, remember that this program is to support your kid and your family. Feel free to advocate for your kid’s needs and ensure they get the most out of the program.
And remember, Goally is here to support you, too. Our learning tablet for kids can complement the services provided by the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio, offering additional resources to help your neurodivergent kid thrive.
At the end of the day, the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio is about getting the support you need for your neurodivergent kid. It’s about ensuring they have the resources to thrive and grow. And it’s about easing the financial burden on families, making life a little bit easier.
Goally is a valuable resource for clinicians who are looking for ways to support children with speech and language problems.
Goally’s distraction-free kid’s tablet can be used as a therapy tool to help teach executive function, language, emotional regulation, finger dexterity skills, and more!
Yes, navigating the world of Medicaid waivers can be complex, but it’s worth the effort. The support and resources provided by the Medicaid Waiver Program in Ohio can be a game-changer for your neurodivergent kid. So, don’t hesitate to reach out, ask questions, and start the application process. After all, every bit of support helps in creating the best life for your kid.
Circumstances/Diagnosis: Any child or adult who has a diagnosis 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.
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.
These waivers cover assistive technology (like Goally), participant-directed goods and services, participant-directed homemaker/personal care, waiver nursing delegation, support brokerage, community and residential respite, non-medical transportation, transportation, functional behavioral assessment, vocational habilitation, career planning, individual employment support, clinical/therapeutic intervention, participant/family stability assistance, group employment support, remote support
You can apply for any of these waivers by calling your County Board for Developmental Disabilities
Get on the waiting list as soon as possible but don’t wait to get services. Ohio’s waitlist for medicaid services is terrible, but their county resources are fantastic; we’ve had lots of Goally parents get their devices covered through county offices.
This post was originally published on 02/16/2021. It was updated on 09/14/2023.
