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CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver

Published on
July 24, 2023
Last updated
February 29, 2024
Written by
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Katie Wilkinson
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The Employment and Day Supports Waiver is a Medicaid program in Connecticut that provides an array of services to people with developmental and intellectual disabilities, including compensation for family caregivers through a self-directed option.
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The CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver is a pillar in Connecticut's healthcare system, catering to individuals aged 18 or older with developmental disabilities and those aged three or older with intellectual disabilities. This Medicaid program offers diverse services, including respite, supported employment, assistive technology, and more.

Overview of CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver

The CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver is a crucial Medicaid program in Connecticut designed to address the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities aged 18 or older and those with intellectual disabilities aged three or older who meet an ICF/IID level of care. This waiver aims to provide comprehensive and person-centered services to enhance the quality of life for its beneficiaries and support their integration into their communities.

The program offers various services, including adult day health, group day support, individual-supported employment, behavioral support services, respite, assistive technology, transportation, and more. These services are tailored to meet the unique needs of each individual, promoting their independence, well-being, and overall social integration.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for the CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver, individuals must fulfill specific criteria as follows:

  1. DDS Eligibility: Applicants must be deemed eligible for services provided by the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS) before receiving any waiver services. The DDS has its own eligibility requirements that must be met.
  2. ICF/IID Level of Care: The person must have an intellectual or developmental disability and need a level of care usually provided in an institution certified as an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID).
  3. Desire to Live in the Community: Applicants should express a willingness or want to live in a community rather than an institutional facility.
  4. Financial Eligibility: The applicant's income and assets must fall within the limits specified for the waiver. These financial requirements are in place to ensure that the services are directed to those who genuinely need them.

In addition to the above criteria, the program may extend services to people under 21 who have complex medical needs that would otherwise necessitate institutional care. Furthermore, individuals over 18 who need career development, supported employment, or community-based day support may also be eligible.

For individuals who cannot afford the cost of care but exceed Medicaid's limits, there is a "spend down" program. This program evaluates an individual's care costs and income. If the expenses exceed their income, they may qualify for Medicaid by "spending down" their income on medically-necessary care costs.

Moreover, suppose an individual is denied enrollment into the waiver or is denied requested waiver services. In that case, they can appeal the decision and request a hearing from the Department of Social Services. This ensures a fair process for individuals seeking access to vital waiver services.

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Services and Supports

The CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver offers comprehensive services and supports tailored to meet the diverse needs of individuals with developmental and intellectual disabilities. These vital services include:

  1. Family Support Services: Respite care offers temporary relief to family caregivers, enabling them to take breaks and attend to personal needs while ensuring their loved ones receive appropriate care.
  2. Vocational and Day Services: This category encompasses various options to promote skill development, community integration, and employment opportunities. Services include Adult Day Health programs, Individual and Group Supported Employment, Community-Based Day Support Options, and Individualized Day Support.
  3. Specialized Support Services: To address specific needs, the waiver offers a range of specialized support services, such as Behavioral Support Services, to manage challenging behaviors and promote positive interactions. Additionally, individuals may receive assistance through Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies, Interpreters for effective communication, Transportation for accessing essential resources, Independent Support Brokers to guide them through the service system, and Peer Support for valuable social connections.
  4. Assistive Technology: This service ensures that individuals access necessary tools and devices that aid their communication, mobility, and daily activities, enhancing their independence and overall well-being.

These services are designed to empower individuals with disabilities, allowing them to lead fulfilling lives within their communities while providing essential support to their caregivers. The CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver seeks to create a comprehensive and inclusive system of care that promotes dignity, autonomy, and meaningful participation in society.

Compensation for Family Caregivers

The CT Employment and Day Supports Waiver does offer compensation for unpaid family caregivers through a self-directed option. This means that eligible individuals with disabilities can choose to hire and manage their caregivers, often family members, to provide the necessary care and support.

By opting for the self-directed approach, caregivers can receive payment for their caregiving services, acknowledging their invaluable role in supporting their loved ones. This compensation helps recognize the immense dedication and effort put forth by family caregivers, who are essential to the healthcare system.

Learn more about Medicaid self-directed care >>
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A note from Givers

If you are a caregiver in Connecticut, take a moment to see if you qualify for compensation under this program. Your devotion deserves acknowledgment, and we invite you to fill out this form to determine your eligibility.

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