The Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers are a crucial initiative within the healthcare system to aid MassHealth-eligible individuals in transitioning from nursing facilities or chronic disease, rehabilitation, or psychiatric hospitals back to their communities. By providing home- and community-based services (HCBS) waivers, the MFP aims to ease the move from facilities to the community, enabling individuals to receive the support and care they need while embracing community living.
The Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers represent a critical component of MassHealth's efforts to enhance the lives of eligible individuals and empower caregivers within the healthcare system. The program's core purpose is to facilitate the transition of MassHealth-eligible persons from nursing facilities or institutional settings, such as chronic disease, rehabilitation, or psychiatric hospitals, back to their communities.
Through these home and community-based services (HCBS) waivers, the MFP seeks to achieve two primary objectives:
These waivers are tailored to two distinct target populations, each with different needs:
By offering tailored support and services, the Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers strive to foster a compassionate and inclusive healthcare system where caregivers are rightfully recognized and empowered, and individuals can embrace community living with dignity and support.
To be eligible for the Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers in Massachusetts, individuals must meet specific criteria by MassHealth. The program aims to support those currently residing in nursing facilities or chronic disease, rehabilitation, or psychiatric hospitals and help them transition back to their communities with necessary resources and ongoing services.
To qualify for one of the MFP waivers, an individual must fulfill the following requirements:
For individuals seeking the MFP Residential Supports (MFP-RS) waiver, an additional criterion applies:
By adhering to these eligibility requirements, eligible individuals can access the appropriate MFP waiver, receive the necessary support, and embark on their journey toward community living with the assistance they need.
Under the Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers, care recipients can access comprehensive services and supports tailored to their individual needs to facilitate their transition to community living. The waiver services are provided based on the participant's goals and requirements, as outlined in their individual service plan, developed in collaboration with a dedicated case manager or service coordinator.
The services and supports available under the MFP waivers include, but are not limited to:
These services address various needs, including personal care, therapeutic support, vocational training, and assistance with activities, enabling waiver participants to thrive in their communities while receiving the necessary care and assistance. Certain services are specific to the MFP-RS or MFP-CL waiver, and not all services are available for every participant.
Under the Moving Forward Plan (MFP) Waivers, compensation for unpaid family caregivers is possible through the self-directed option. The self-directed option allows eligible individuals to choose their caregivers, including family members, and pay them for the caregiving services provided. This empowers families to actively participate in their loved one's care while receiving financial support for their efforts.
By compensating unpaid family caregivers through the self-directed option, the MFP program recognizes these caregivers' invaluable role in supporting the transition to community living. This approach promotes better outcomes for the individual receiving care and acknowledges the importance of fair compensation for family caregivers, who are often an underpaid workforce in the United States.
You may apply to participate in the MFP waiver at any time.
Send your completed MFP Waiver application to:
UMass MFP Waiver Unit
333 South Street
Shrewsbury, MA 01545
If you care for someone in Massachusetts, we invite you to take the first step in exploring your eligibility for caregiver compensation. Fill out this form to see if you qualify for the self-directed option.
