CT Acquired Brain Injury (ABI) Waiver

Overview of Connecticut's Acquired Brain Injury Waiver (CT ABI)

The Connecticut Acquired Brain Injury Waiver (CT ABI Waiver) is part of the Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program, authorized under 1915(c) of the Social Security Act. This program allows states to offer a variety of home and community-based services to help Medicaid beneficiaries avoid institutionalization and live within their communities. The CT ABI Waiver specifically provides an alternative to institutional care for individuals aged 18 and older who have acquired brain injuries. It is designed to support these individuals in relearning, improving, or retaining skills necessary for community living, emphasizing person-centered planning to develop a comprehensive and cost-effective care plan.

Eligibility Requirements

The Department of Social Services (DSS), as the state Medicaid Agency, administers the CT ABI Waiver. Eligibility for the waiver includes meeting categorically and medically needy criteria and specific income and asset requirements. DSS is responsible for determining each participant's share of the cost for the waiver services. Care managers work closely with participants, their families, and care providers to assess and address cognitive, physical, and behavioral support needs, ensuring that plans meet eligibility criteria and respond effectively to participants' needs.

Services and Supports

Under the CT ABI Waiver, credentialed providers deliver various services to participants' homes and communities. These services include:

1. Homemaker: Services to assist with household tasks and maintaining a safe living environment.
2. Pre-Vocational Service: Training and support to develop skills for employment.
3. Respite: Temporary relief services for caregivers.
4. Supported Employment: Assistance with obtaining and maintaining employment.
5. ABI Group Day: Group activities and programs for individuals with acquired brain injuries.
6. Assistive Technology: Devices and equipment to assist with daily living.
7. Chore: Services to help with heavy household chores.
8. Cognitive Behavioral Programs: Programs targeting cognitive and behavioral rehabilitation.
9. Community Living Support Services (CLSS): Services to support living independently in the community.
10. Companion: Non-medical care and supervision.
11. Environmental Accessibility Adaptation: Modifications to make the home environment more accessible.
12. Home-Delivered Meals: Provision of meals to individuals at home.
13. Independent Living Skills Training: Training to enhance skills for independent living.
14. Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS): Devices that allow individuals to call for help in an emergency.
15. Substance Abuse Programs: Programs addressing substance abuse issues.
16. Transitional Living Services: Support for transitioning to independent living.
17. Transportation: Services to facilitate access to community resources and events.
18. Vehicle Modification Services: Modifications to vehicles for accessibility and safety​
    

Compensation for Caregivers

Family caregivers work with a fiscal agent contracted by the DDS to get paid for the work that they do for their loved one. 

1. Provider Recruitment and Training: The fiscal agent is responsible for recruiting providers, which includes family caregivers who wish to provide care under the waiver. These caregivers can access training opportunities to enhance their caregiving skills and better meet the needs of the person with an acquired brain injury.
2. Fiscal Monitoring and Claims Processing: The fiscal agent also handles financial aspects such as monitoring expenses and processing claims. For family caregivers, this means they can receive compensation for their services through a structured, managed system. They would need to submit claims for the care they provide, and the fiscal agent would process these claims.
3. Provider Credentialing: Credentialing is necessary to ensure caregivers meet specific standards and qualifications. This might involve demonstrating their ability to provide care or completing training requirements for family caregivers.
4. Quality Assurance and Oversight: The program includes routine quality assurance activities and oversight mechanisms, such as staff meetings, training sessions, case conferences, and participant record maintenance. For family caregivers, this implies a commitment to high standards of care and the opportunity to participate in ongoing educational and support activities. These activities ensure that caregivers are well-informed and equipped to provide the best care.
5. Staff Supervision: Regular supervision ensures that the waiver participant's needs are met and that caregivers are supported in their roles. Family caregivers can expect to have a point of contact for questions, concerns, or additional support needs.
   

A Note from Givers

In conclusion, the Connecticut Acquired Brain Injury Waiver supports those with brain injuries. If you or someone you know might benefit from this program, we encourage you to explore your eligibility for compensation and support by filling out this free assessment.