Should I Add My Child To Interest Waiting Lists?

This is a question many parents ask themselves when their child is first diagnosed with physical and mental health care needs or a disability. Many of the waiver programs have a very long waiting list. As of the writing of this article, some of the programs have a list up to 10+ years. 

The waiver list is just that, a list that you put your child on in case they ever need the services.

When they get to the top of the waiver interest list, eligibility will be determined. Many families feel like their child will not qualify due to their income, keep in mind when your child reaches 18 they are an adult. Once they are out of school and continue to need some time in a day program it will cost money.  Even if you feel like your child will be able to live and work independently you should put them on the waiting lists. 

Below is a list of the Texas Medicaid Waivers and a brief description. You will find their phone numbers in the Resource Directory of Exceptional Kids, listed under Medicaid Waiver Programs: 

Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS): gives home and community-based supports to people with related conditions.

Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD): gives services for people who are deaf-blind or have a related condition that leads to deaf-blindness, and who have another disability.

Home and Community-based Services (HSC): gives services and supports to people with intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live with their families, in their own homes, or in small group homes with no more than 4 beds.

Medically Dependent Children Program (MDCP): gives services to families caring for children and young adults as an alternative to receiving services in a nursing facility.

Texas Home Living (TxHmL): gives services to people with an intellectual disability (ID) or a related condition who live in their home or their family’s home.

Youth Empowerment Services (YES): gives home and community-based services to children who otherwise would need psychiatric inpatient care or whose parents would turn to state custody for care.

Also, here are a couple of resources that have been very helpful, I pulled some of the information for this article from  www.navigatelifetexas.org.  The ARC of San Antonio (210) 490-4300, who provided a list of these resources have been wonderful in helping parents understand the benefits and services these programs provide. Once you add your child to these list, request a letter or email confirmation.