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MD Community Pathways

Published on
July 20, 2023
Last updated
February 29, 2024
Written by
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Katie Wilkinson
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The Community Pathways Waiver provides developmentally and intellectually disabled Maryland residents with home and community-based services to enable them to continue living in their homes.
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The Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver plays a pivotal role in the healthcare landscape, providing crucial support and services to developmentally and intellectually disabled residents across the state. Through a combination of home and community-based services funded by the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), the waiver ensures that individuals in Maryland can access the care they require while preserving their independence and quality of life.

Overview of Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver

The Maryland Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver is a vital initiative designed to cater to the needs of developmentally and intellectually disabled individuals residing in Maryland. This home and community-based services (HCBS) program aims to empower participants by offering comprehensive support, enabling them to continue living in their homes and communities with dignity and independence.

The primary purpose of the Medicaid waiver is to provide an array of essential services that help enhance eligible individuals' overall well-being and quality of life. These services may include personal assistance with daily activities, medical support, behavioral health services, respite care, and assistive technology.

The waiver is tailored for individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities, catering to their unique needs and ensuring access to appropriate care and resources. Its overarching goal is to prevent institutionalization and promote community integration, fostering a sense of belonging and inclusivity for those it serves.

By offering a self-directed care option, the program allows care recipients more control over their services and select their preferred caregivers, potentially including certain family members or friends. This facet ensures that care is individualized and aligned with each participant's specific requirements and preferences.

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Eligibility Requirements

The Maryland Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver offers critical services to individuals with developmental or intellectual disabilities residing in the state. Unlike many other Medicaid waivers, the Community Pathways Waiver does not have an age requirement, making it accessible to a broader range of individuals. To qualify for services under this program, candidates must meet the following criteria, which are subject to annual reevaluation:

  1. Residency: Applicants must be residents of Maryland.
  2. Developmental or Intellectual Disability: Eligible individuals must have a documented developmental disability or intellectual disability, including conditions that manifest before age 22 and significantly impact daily functioning and adaptive behavior.
  3. Income Limits: As of 2023, the income limit for a single applicant is $32,904 per year ($2,742 per month). For married couples applying together, each spouse is allowed $2,742 per month in income.
  4. Asset Limits: Single applicants can possess up to $2,000 in countable assets, while married couples applying together are allowed $3,000 in countable assets. Countable assets exclude the value of the applicant's home and vehicle. However, to be exempt, the home's equity value must not exceed $688,000, and the program participant or their spouse must reside in the house.

Services and Supports

The Maryland Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver offers extensive services and supports tailored to meet the unique needs of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. Participants in the program gain access to a comprehensive range of benefits designed to enhance their quality of life and foster community integration. While not all applicants are eligible for every service, the following highlights some standard offerings:

  1. Caregiving Support: The waiver provides assistance with caregiving in the home, allowing participants to receive support from qualified caregivers, including live-in caregivers, who may be eligible for compensation for food and rent.
  2. Accessibility Adaptations: Necessary home and vehicle modifications are offered to enhance accessibility and independence for individuals with disabilities.
  3. Housing Arrangements: The program facilitates various housing arrangements, including community living options such as group homes, supported living, and shared living, ensuring suitable living environments.
  4. Day Habilitation and Residential Rehabilitation: Participants receive opportunities for skill-building and socialization through day habilitation services, promoting personal development and community engagement.
  5. Assistive Technology: A wide range of assistive devices, such as voice-activated lights, weighted utensils, and video magnifiers, are available to aid individuals in their daily activities.
  6. Behavioral Support Services: Specialized services address behavioral challenges and promote emotional well-being.
  7. Family and Peer Mentoring: Participants can access mentoring from experienced individuals or peers, fostering supportive connections within the community.
  8. Family Caregiver Training: Training and education programs are available for family caregivers, empowering them with the knowledge and skills to provide the best care.
  9. Nurse Consultation and Health Case Management: Professional nurse consultation and health case management services offer valuable medical guidance and support.
  10. Respite Care: Temporary relief care is provided to primary caregivers, ensuring they can rest and recharge.
  11. Non-Medical Transportation: Transportation services help individuals access essential appointments and activities within their community.
  12. Remote Support Services: Technological support systems enable remote monitoring and assistance for increased safety and independence.
  13. Individual/Family Directed Goods and Services: Program participants can choose certain goods and services that align with their needs.
  14. Transitional Services: Support is offered during transitional periods, such as moving to a new living arrangement or care setting.
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Compensation for Family Caregivers

The Maryland Community Pathways Medicaid Waiver does offer compensation for caregivers, including unpaid family caregivers, through its self-directed care option. This unique feature allows program participants greater control over their services and selects their preferred caregivers, which may include certain family members or friends. However, an exception exists as spouses cannot be paid to provide services. Under the self-directed care model, caregivers can receive payment for the care services they provide, acknowledging their crucial role in supporting individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. This compensation mechanism aims to recognize and empower family caregivers while ensuring participants receive personalized and compassionate care tailored to their needs.

Learn more about Medicaid self-directed care >>

A note from Givers

If you or your loved ones could benefit from this program and its caregiver compensation option, take action today. Fill out this form to determine your eligibility for caregiver compensation.

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