The Community Integration & Habilitation (CIH) Waiver is Medicaid program in Indiana that helps individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.Ahead, we explore the waiver, its eligibility requirements, services, and the application process.
The Community Integration & Habilitation (CIH) Waiver program in Indiana is a Medicaid-funded program that supports people with developmental and intellectual disabilities by providing access to long-term services in community-based settings. The waiver helps these people to receive care and live as independently as possible while avoiding institutionalization.
To qualify for the Community Integration & Habilitation (CIH) Waiver, you must have a documented intellectual disability or developmental disability diagnosed before the age of 22 that is expected to continue indefinitely.
Applicants must demonstrate that they have substantial functional limitations in at least three major life activities: self-care, mobility, learning, communication, or self-direction.
The waiver is intended for those who require an intermediate care facility for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ICF/IID) level of care but prefer to receive waiver services in a community-based setting.
Additionally, financial eligibility must be established to meet Medicaid income and asset limits.
To apply for the CIH Waiver in Indiana, start by contacting the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) to set up a meeting. During this meeting, you and your family will get help with the required paperwork, such as showing that you have a disability and having assessments to determine the level of care you need.After the intake, the BDDS will determine whether the individual meets the eligibility criteria. If eligible, the individual will need to complete a person-centered planning process, which outlines the waiver services and supports they require.
The level of care assessment determines if a person qualifies for care at an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID). It looks at the person's ability to do daily activities, their health, and the extent of their intellectual or developmental disabilities.
Person-centered planning makes sure each person gets the support they need based on their specific needs, preferences, and goals. Family members, caregivers, and professionals give their input to make sure the plan fits the person's lifestyle choices and aspirations, and the plan is regularly reviewed to adjust to any changes in the person's situation or needs.
Community Mental Health Center Organizations (CMCOs) help individuals assess their needs, create care plans, and ensure coordinated support to achieve person-centered plan goals. They offer case management services and monitor progress to provide the necessary support.
One significant consideration of the application process is the potential waitlist. Due to high demand, you may be placed on a waitlist. The state of Indiana has tried to address the backlog by inviting a specific number of people off the waitlist each month, but the process can still take time. While waiting for approval, applicants should stay in touch with their local Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDDS) office to stay updated on their status and explore other support options.
The CIH Waiver helps family members (excluding spouses) get paid for providing care through the Structured Family Caregiving program. This program reduces the financial burden on families by compensating them for the care they provide while allowing the recipient to stay in their familiar home environment.
Families who want to apply for caregiver payment under Structured Family Caregiving need to work with a case manager to make sure the caregiver is included in the recipient's care plan. Once approved, caregivers can receive compensation based on the level of care provided and the hours worked. This offers financial relief and formal recognition of their caregiving role.
When applying for the CIH Waiver, start by understanding the eligibility requirements and gathering the necessary documents. This includes preparing medical records, proof of intellectual or developmental disabilities, and financial information to show Medicaid eligibility.
At a BDDS intake meeting, applicants will talk about their care needs and their living situation. The intake team will check if they are eligible, do a first assessment, and explain the waiver services. They will also help families make a care plan and show them what to do next. These meetings are a chance to ask questions and learn about waitlists or other supports while waiting for waiver approval.
The CIH Waiver plays a vital role in empowering individuals with disabilities to live fulfilling lives in their communities. You can use our free program matching tool to see if you qualify.
