Navigating the complex world of support services can be overwhelming for individuals with disabilities or those requiring long-term care. The Pennsylvania (PA) Waiver Program is designed to provide subsidized funding for essential care, but understanding eligibility, application processes, and available services can be daunting. That’s where A Bridge to Independence comes in.
At A Bridge to Independence, we serve as your personal guide through the supports and service coordination process, ensuring that individuals and families receive the care they need. Whether you’re looking for personalized home care, community support, or specialized disability services, we help bridge the gap between available services and the next steps you need to take.
What is the PA Waiver Program?
The PA Waiver Program provides financial assistance to individuals who require long-term services but wish to receive them in their homes or communities instead of in institutional settings like nursing homes. These waivers allow Medicaid funding for various home and community-based services (HCBS), offering greater independence and a better quality of life.
The waivers are divided into two categories:
- Service Coordination Waivers – These waivers provide direct services for personal care, home modifications, and assistance with daily living.
- Supports Coordination Waivers – These waivers focus on individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism, offering community-based support and specialized programs.
At A Bridge to Independence, we assist individuals who qualify for the following waiver programs.
Service Coordination Waivers: Personalized Care at Home
Service Coordination Waivers are designed to assist with daily tasks, mobility, and medical needs for individuals who require support but want to maintain independence. Here are the waivers that fall under this category:
OBRA Waiver
The OBRA Waiver serves individuals with developmental physical disabilities that occurred before age 22. It helps provide services like home modifications, personal assistance, and employment support to enable independent living.
Attendant Care/Act 150 Program
The Attendant Care/Act 150 Program provides non-medical assistance with dressing, bathing, meal preparation, and transportation for those who need help with daily personal tasks. Unlike other waivers, this program is available to Medicaid-eligible and non-Medicaid individuals.
Community HealthChoices (CHC) Waiver
Community HealthChoice (CHC) Waiver is Pennsylvania’s program for individuals who require long-term services and are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid. It combines several former waivers into one comprehensive managed care program.
The following waivers were transitioned into CHC:
- Attendant Care Waiver.
- Independence Waiver.
- CommCare Waiver.
- Aging Waiver.
Under CHC, participants receive personal care services, home health care, behavioral health services, and nursing home transition support.
Supports Coordination Waivers: Fostering Community & Independence
Supports Coordination Waivers are designed for individuals with intellectual disabilities, developmental disabilities, and autism, providing them with community-based resources, employment support, and personalized planning.
Adult Autism Waiver
The Adult Autism Waiver is designed exclusively for adults with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). It provides behavioral therapy, job coaching, social skills development, and independent living support, helping individuals lead more self-sufficient and fulfilling lives.
Intellectual & Developmental Disability (IDD) Waiver
The IDD Waiver covers various services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and developmental delays. These services include:
- Day programs and community integration.
- Employment training and job placement.
- Personal assistance and in-home care.
- Behavioral and psychological support.
Consolidated Waiver
The Consolidated Waiver is one of the most comprehensive waivers available. It provides full-time residential assistive technology, transportation, and therapeutic services. It is ideal for individuals who require round-the-clock support but want to remain in a home or community setting.
Community Living Waiver
The Community Living Waiver provides services similar to the Consolidated Waiver but focuses on shared living arrangements and family-based care. This waiver is designed for individuals who benefit from a structured, community-supported environment.
Person/Family-Directed Support Waiver
This waiver empowers individuals and families to manage their own services by allowing them to hire personal assistants, choose service providers, and tailor support plans to their needs. It promotes self-direction and independence.
How A Bridge to Independence Can Help
Navigating waiver eligibility, application processes, and service coordination can be challenging. At A Bridge to Independence, we take the guesswork out of the process by:
1. Helping You Determine Eligibility
Each waiver has specific eligibility requirements, including age, medical condition, and income guidelines. We assess your situation and determine which waiver(s) you qualify for.
2. Guiding You Through the Application Process
Filing for a waiver program involves extensive paperwork and coordination with multiple agencies. Our experts streamline the process, ensuring you submit all necessary documents correctly and on time.
3. Coordinating Services & Supports
Once approved, we help connect you with personal care providers, home modification specialists, employment services, and community resources. Our team ensures you receive the best care tailored to your needs.
4. Advocating for You
If you face delays, denials, or service interruptions, our advocates fight for your rights and ensure you receive the services you’re entitled to under the waiver program.
Start Your Journey with A Bridge to Independence
The PA Waiver Program is vital for individuals seeking independence and support outside of institutional care. But navigating the system alone can be overwhelming. With A Bridge to Independence, you don’t have to go through the process alone.
Our team is dedicated to bridging the gap between available services and your individual needs, ensuring you or your loved one receives the best possible care.
Ready to Get Started?
Contact us today to learn how A Bridge to Independence can guide you through the PA Waiver Program and connect you to the needed services.
- Call us at 844-724-3483
- Email us at info@abridgetoindependence.org
- Visit us online at abridgetoindependence.org
Let us help you live with dignity, independence, and confidence.
