LA New Opportunities Waiver

The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) in Louisiana is a Medicaid program that has operated since April 2003, replacing the previous Mentally Retarded and Developmentally Disabled Waiver (MRDD Waiver). As a crucial component of healthcare, NOW aims to implement the principles of self-determination while providing essential supplemental support to families and communities. By emphasizing dignity, quality of life, and individual security, this program facilitates the maintenance of recipients within their communities.

Overview of The New Opportunities Waiver

The program's primary purpose is to promote the principles of self-determination while providing crucial supplementary support to individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. NOW aims to improve the quality of life, uphold dignity, and ensure security in the daily lives of its recipients while enabling them to remain integrated within their communities.

Its target population includes individuals with developmental disabilities, intellectual disabilities, or other related conditions who require ongoing care and support to maintain their well-being. Through the NOW waiver, participants gain access to various services and support tailored to their individual needs, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives within their communities.

The key objectives of the NOW program encompass enhancing the overall quality of care and life for individuals with developmental disabilities, fostering independence and self-direction, and recognizing the invaluable contributions of family caregivers. By prioritizing the well-being of both recipients and caregivers, NOW aims to create a more inclusive and compassionate healthcare system that provides equitable compensation for those who dedicate their lives to caring for their loved ones.

Eligibility Requirements for The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) in Louisiana

To participate in Louisiana's New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) program, individuals must meet specific eligibility criteria designed to ensure the appropriateness and necessity of home and community-based waiver services. These criteria focus on creating individualized support plans while promoting less restrictive treatment alternatives over continuous custodial care.

To qualify for the NOW program, an individual must meet the following requirements:

1. Medicaid Eligibility: Prospective participants must be eligible for Medicaid benefits in Louisiana.
2. Age Requirement: Applicants must be three years of age or older.
3. OCDD Statement of Approval: Individuals seeking NOW services must obtain a Statement of Approval from the Office for Citizens with Developmental Disabilities (OCDD).
4. Developmental Disability Definition: The applicant must meet the Louisiana definition of Developmental Disability outlined in Revised Statue 25:451.2 Paragraph (12).
5. Level of Care Criteria: Meeting the Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF-IID) Level of Care Criteria is essential for eligibility.
6. Unmet Needs: Individuals should have needs that cannot be adequately met through other OCDD Waiver programs, highlighting the unique benefits and focus of the NOW program.

Meeting these eligibility requirements ensures that participants can access specific, activity-focused services tailored to their needs, fostering independence, and supporting their overall well-being while remaining actively engaged in their communities.

Services and Supports under The New Opportunities Waiver

The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) in Louisiana offers comprehensive services and supports to empower individuals with developmental disabilities to live as independently as possible within their communities. These services are designed to cater to each participant's unique needs and preferences, promoting dignity and enhancing the quality of life.

The NOW program encompasses the following services and supports:

1. Center-Based Respite: Providing temporary relief to family caregivers by offering respite services in a supervised center.
2. Community Integration and Development: Facilitating community engagement and socialization to foster a sense of belonging.
3. Day Habilitation and Transportation: Offering structured day activities and transportation assistance.
4. Prevocational Services: Preparing individuals for employment by developing vocational skills.
5. Environmental Accessibility Adaptations: Modifying living spaces for accessibility and improved mobility.
6. Housing Stabilization Services: Ensuring stable housing arrangements.
7. Housing Stabilization Transition Services: Assisting with transitioning to new housing arrangements.
8. Individualized and Family Support (IFS) Service Day & Night: Providing personalized support services both during the day and night.
9. One-Time Transitional Services: Assisting with transitional needs during significant life changes.
10. Personal Emergency Response System: Offering access to immediate assistance in emergencies.
11. Adult Companion Care: Providing support and companionship to participants.
12. Professional Services: Offering specialized services as required by participants.
13. Self-Direction Option: Allowing participants to have greater control over their support services.
14. Skilled Nursing Services: Providing medically necessary nursing care.
15. Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies: Supplying necessary medical equipment and materials.
16. Substitute Family Care: Offering temporary care in a family setting.
17. Supported Employment and Transportation: Assisting with sponsored employment opportunities and transportation needs.
18. Supported Living: Providing support for individuals to live independently.

The NOW program's diverse range of services and supports ensures that participants receive the care and assistance they need to lead fulfilling lives, pursue personal goals, and actively participate in their communities.

Does the NOW Program Pay Family Caregivers?

The New Opportunities Waiver (NOW) in Louisiana does not directly provide financial compensation to family caregivers for their services. However, the program does offer a range of services that may include respite care, training and education for caregivers, and support with specific needs related to the care of the individual.

Medicaid waiver programs, including NOW, can change and update over time. We recommend contacting the Louisiana Department of Health or relevant authorities for the most current and detailed information about financial assistance and support services available to family caregivers through the NOW program.

A Note from Givers

If you are a family caregiver in Louisiana, take the first step to explore your eligibility for compensation by filling out this form. Your care makes all the difference, and your dedication deserves recognition.