Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waivers

State Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waiver eligibility requirements and lengthy waiting lists can hinder military families from obtaining supplemental support for members with special needs during separation or retirement from active service. States can assist military families by facilitating their ability to earn the same priorities afforded to every eligible state resident.

The Department of Defense established the TRICARE ECHO program to provide additional coverage for active duty sponsored family members with condition-specific needs. However, they lose ECHO support upon separation/retirement of the sponsor from the military.

Additionally, when families transition out of the military, they generally have to start the entire Medicaid application process in the state in which they settle, resulting in long waiting periods without services.

Consequently, families incur significant debt whilepaying for a family member's care.

States can alleviate barriers experienced by military families who lose access to valuable medical benefits as a result of transitioning out of the state on military orders.

Michigan is one of a number of states that does not have waiting lists due to funding levels or has generally supportive policy such that legislation is not required.

*Source: Kaiser Family Foundation Medicaid Home & Community-Based Services Waiver Program Survey.