ALTCS provides services to people who need a nursing home level of care. As this is a Medicaid program, there aren’t any waiting lists; everyone who’s eligible can receive benefits. The managed care system also means that seniors work entirely with a single organization, making the logistics of arranging care and benefits easier.
To qualify for ALTCS support, you must be financially eligible. The financial limits for this program are higher than those for regular Medicaid. You must also be aged 65 or older, or have a recognized disability, and at risk of institutionalization.
The exact benefits you can receive depend on your needs and where you reside. For example, there are different levels of support provided for people in assisted living facilities as compared to those living in their own home. In addition to the medical care provided by Medicaid, the program offers assistive services. These can include:
- Care coordination
- Behavioral health care
- Durable medical equipment
- Personal care services
- Personal emergency response systems
- Medical transportation
The program doesn’t cover the cost of room and board in assisted living facilities.
When you apply, the department looks at your finances first. If you’re financially eligible for the program, a social worker conducts an in-person assessment to decide if you meet the functional eligibility criteria. The assessment also determines the level of care you require. To apply, you can contact the nearest ALTCS office or call (888) 621-6880.