MO Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver

The Missouri Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver (MOCDD), commonly known as the Sarah Lopez Waiver, plays a crucial role in the healthcare system by extending Medicaid eligibility to children with developmental disabilities. This program allows families to choose home-based care for their eligible children rather than institutional care, granting access to essential services and support.

Overview of Missouri Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver (MOCDD)

The primary purpose of the Missouri Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver is to enable eligible children to receive care and assistance at home, giving families the option to avoid institutional placements for their children. By extending Medicaid eligibility to children who would otherwise qualify for MO HealthNet in an institution, the MOCDD waiver aims to promote family-based care while meeting the unique needs of children with developmental disabilities.

The program targets a specific population of children with developmental disabilities who require ongoing assistance and specialized services to lead fulfilling lives. It offers a range of services, including day habilitation, in-home respite, personal assistance, applied behavior analysis, assistive technology, and more. The MOCDD waiver operates under the administration of the Missouri Department of Mental Health, Division of Developmental Disabilities, in collaboration with the MO HealthNet Division. The overarching goal is to enhance the quality of life for children with developmental disabilities and their families by fostering community inclusion and support.

Eligibility Requirements for the Missouri Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver

To qualify for the MOCDD, applicants must meet specific criteria set by the program. Eligibility is determined based on various factors, including income, disability status, age, and residency. The following are the essential requirements:

1. Age: The child must be under 18 at the time of application.
2. Developmental Disability: The child must have a qualifying developmental disability, as defined by the state of Missouri, which includes conditions like intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorder, and related impairments that lead to substantial functional limitations.
3. Medical Need for Institutional Care: The child must meet the medical necessity criteria for institutional care but must choose to remain at home under the MOCDD waiver.
4. Income: The child's income is considered when determining eligibility. The state evaluates only the child's income, excluding parental or household income.
5. Missouri Residency: The child must be a resident of Missouri.
6. Citizenship/Immigration Status: The child must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified immigrant.

Meeting these eligibility requirements is a crucial step in accessing the services and supports provided by the MOCDD waiver, enabling families to care for their children with developmental disabilities at home with the necessary assistance and resources.

Services and Supports under the MOCDD

The Missouri Children with Developmental Disabilities Waiver offers services and supports tailored to meet the unique needs of care recipients and their families. These services aim to enhance the child's quality of life, foster community integration, and provide necessary assistance for families in their caregiving role. The following is a list of the services and supports available under the MOCDD waiver:

1. Day Habilitation: Structured activities and skill-building programs to promote personal development and independence.
2. In-Home Respite: Temporary relief for caregivers, allowing them to take a break from caregiving responsibilities while a qualified provider cares for the child.
3. Out-of-Home Respite: Similar to in-home respite but offered outside the child's home.
4. Personal Assistant: Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs), including grooming, dressing, and meal preparation.
5. Support Broker: Guidance and assistance navigating waiver services and developing person-centered plans.
6. Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA): Behavioral therapy to address behavioral challenges and promote positive behaviors.
7. Assistive Technology: Devices and equipment help the child increase independence and participate in daily activities.
8. Community Networking: Facilitating opportunities for the child to engage with the community and build social connections.
9. Community Specialist: Support and coordination of community-based services and resources.
10. Crisis Intervention: Immediate assistance and support during challenging situations or emergencies.
11. Environmental Accessibility Adaptations (Home/Vehicle Modification): Modifications to the home or vehicle to accommodate the child's specific needs.
12. Health Assessment and Coordination Services: Medical and health-related services are assessed and coordinated.
13. Individual Directed Goods and Services: Flexible funding for services based on individual needs and choices.
14. Individualized Skill Development: Training and support to develop specific skills necessary for daily living and community participation.
15. Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies (Adaptive Equipment): Provision of medical equipment tailored to the child's needs.
16. Transportation: Assistance with transportation to medical appointments, community activities, and other essential destinations.

Compensation for Family Caregivers

The MOCDD does offer compensation for unpaid family caregivers through a self-directed option, meaning that eligible families can hire and pay family members, including parents, to provide caregiving services for the child with developmental disabilities. The self-directed option gives families greater control and flexibility in deciding the care and support their child receives. The MOCDD waiver recognizes their invaluable role in caring for their loved ones by compensating family caregivers. It acknowledges the importance of family-based care in the overall well-being of children with developmental disabilities. This compensation option helps alleviate financial burdens on families while ensuring the child receives quality care within a familiar and supportive environment.