The Adults HCBS Waiver, as part of Oregon's Medicaid program, is designed to provide a spectrum of home and community-based services. This waiver aims to assist Medicaid beneficiaries, particularly adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, in living within their communities and avoiding institutionalization. The waiver supports personal preferences, independence, and self-determination by offering a range of services. It complements other federal, state, and local public programs and family and community support.
To qualify for the Adults HCBS Waiver, applicants must meet specific criteria. These include income limits and disability requirements. Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities are primarily considered. The waiver is structured to serve those who require a level of care akin to institutional settings but prefer to live in the community. Oregon's Department of Human Services determines eligibility by assessing functional needs and care levels.
The Adults HCBS Waiver in Oregon offers a variety of services and supports, including:
The Oregon Adults Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver, like many HCBS programs, includes provisions for participant direction, which allows individuals to have greater control over their care, including the hiring and management of caregivers.
In Oregon's HCBS Waiver, participant direction means that eligible individuals have the authority to hire, train, supervise, and, if necessary, dismiss their caregivers. This model is often called "consumer-directed" or "self-directed" care.
Participants may have the option to hire family members as paid caregivers. This arrangement recognizes family caregivers' valuable role and provides a financial incentive for their care.
Oregon's waiver program typically sets standard rates for caregiver compensation. However, within these guidelines, participants might have some flexibility to negotiate pay rates with their caregivers, including family members, based on the complexity of care needed.
When family members are hired as caregivers, they are often treated as employees. This means adherence to standard employment procedures, including background checks and potential eligibility for certain benefits, depending on the program's structure. Oregon's HCBS Waiver may provide access to financial management services to assist participants in managing the financial and administrative aspects of hiring caregivers.
One of the critical advantages of participant-direction is the ability to customize care according to the participant's unique needs and preferences, including setting schedules that work for both the participant and the caregiver.
While the waiver provides essential services, it faces limitations such as funding constraints, regulatory complexities, and the need for continuous adaptation to changing needs and circumstances. Navigating these challenges requires ongoing evaluation and adjustments to maintain effectiveness and efficiency.
If you believe you or a loved one could benefit from the Adults HCBS Waiver, we invite you to fill out this form to get started. Our team is dedicated to guiding you through the process and ensuring you receive the support you need.
