WI Children's Long-Term Support Program

The Children's Long-Term Support (CLTS) Program assists children with disabilities and their families in Wisconsin. This home and community-based service waiver, funded through Medicaid, offers a lifeline of support and services that enable children to thrive and achieve their full potential. The CLTS Program strives to keep children at home rather than in institutional care by allowing states to fund non-medical services and supports beyond traditional offerings. Recently renewed by the federal government for five more years, this program holds significant importance in advocating for caregivers, the often underpaid workforce who contribute immensely to the well-being of children with disabilities.

Overview of the Children's Long-Term Support Program

The CLTS Program provides a comprehensive array of services tailored to meet the unique needs of each eligible child, ensuring they can lead fulfilling lives and reach their full potential. This collaborative program involves support and service coordinators from local county health and human services agencies who work closely with eligible children and their families to identify the required services.

The waiver allows Wisconsin to utilize Medicaid funds to provide non-medical services and supports beyond standard offerings. By leveraging this flexibility, the CLTS Program aims to enhance the quality of life for children with disabilities, promote their inclusion within their communities, and support families in providing care and support.

With a renewed commitment from the federal government, the CLTS Program continues to champion the rights of caregivers and the well-being of children with disabilities, reinforcing its role as an integral part of the healthcare system and a beacon of hope for families needing assistance. In the following sections, we will delve into the specific eligibility criteria and the wide range of services and supports offered under this program.

Eligibility Requirements for the Children's Long-Term Support Program

The program has specific eligibility criteria that children must meet to participate in and receive its valuable services and support. To be eligible for the CLTS Program, a child must meet the following requirements:

1. Age: The child must be younger than 22 at the time of application.
2. Medicaid Eligibility: The child must be eligible for Wisconsin Medicaid, which typically involves meeting specific income and asset requirements set by the state.
3. Residential Status: The child should live at home with their family, in foster care, or another approved community-based setting. This program promotes family and community inclusion while providing the necessary care and support.
4. Level of Care Need: The child must require a level of care typically provided in settings such as hospitals, nursing homes, or institutions for people with developmental disabilities. However, the program's goal is to ensure that the child can receive the required care in a safe home or community environment instead of an institutional facility.

Additionally, to assess eligibility accurately and determine the specific services and supports needed, the CLTS Program utilizes a comprehensive assessment process. This evaluation considers the child's functional and developmental status to effectively tailor the services to meet their individual needs.

Range of Services and Supports under the Children's Long-Term Support Program

The CLTS Program offers comprehensive services to children with disabilities and their families, empowering them to lead fulfilling lives within their homes and community. These services are designed to help children achieve their developmental goals, enhance their quality of life, and promote active social participation. The CLTS Program covers a wide array of supports, including:

1. Support Services: Offering personalized assistance to help children with disabilities actively participate in their home and community.
2. Respite Care: Providing temporary relief to family caregivers, ensuring their well-being and ability to continue providing care.
3. Personal Supports: Assisting with daily living tasks and promoting independence in self-care.
4. Child Care: Offering childcare services to support families caring for their child(ren) with disabilities.
5. Day Services: Providing opportunities for skill development, social interaction, and community integration during the day.
6. Community Competitive/Integrated Employment: Facilitating access to employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities in the community.
7. Discovery and Career Planning: Assisting individuals in exploring career paths and setting achievable goals.
8. Participant and Family-Directed Goods and Services: Allowing participants and their families to direct the use of certain funds for services they deem necessary.
9. Transportation: Ensuring access to transportation for medical appointments, activities, and community involvement.
10. Teaching and Skills Development: Equipping children with essential life and vocational skills.
11. Counseling and Therapeutic Services: Offering mental health and therapeutic support.
12. Daily Living Skills Training: Assisting children in developing essential life skills.
13. Empowerment and Self-Determination Supports: Encouraging self-advocacy and self-determination.
14. Family/Unpaid Caregiver Supports and Services: Recognizing the vital role of family caregivers and offering assistance.
15. Grief and Bereavement Counseling: Providing support during challenging times.
16. Health and Wellness: Promoting overall health and well-being.
17. Mentoring: Offering guidance and support through mentorship programs.
18. Safety Planning and Prevention: Ensuring a safe and secure environment.

Additionally, the program covers various forms of equipment and support, including physical aids, assistive technology, communication assistance, personal emergency response systems, specialized medical and therapeutic supplies, vehicle modifications, and virtual equipment.

Furthermore, the CLTS Program addresses housing-related needs, including home modifications, housing support services, relocation services, and support for children in foster care or adult family homes.

The program uses a "Deciding Together" approach that encourages a team approach to find suitable support and services for the family and child. This approach involves the family in decision-making and tailoring services based on the unique needs and goals identified through this process.

Compensation for Family Caregivers

Through the self-directed option offered under this waiver, family caregivers can be compensated for the caregiving services they provide to their child with disabilities. The self-directed option allows eligible families greater control and flexibility in managing their child's care and support services. By participating in the self-directed option, family caregivers can receive payment for their caregiving efforts, acknowledging the significant contributions they make to the well-being of their loved ones. This compensation option not only helps alleviate financial burdens but also recognizes family caregivers as essential care team members within the healthcare system.