NOW/COMP: Could this Community Medicaid Waiver Program Help You?

The practice of elder law includes providing services to the disabled including those who have been disabled since birth.  This week, our blog will continue to explore community Medicaid programs for disabled individuals under the age of 65 who may need care in their home or in an institutional setting.  Could community Medicaid waiver programs like NOW/COMP help you or someone you love?

NOW/COMP

In Georgia we have New Options Waiver (NOW)/Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP)  These programs are classes of assistance that provide in-home and community-based services to Medicaid eligible intellectually disabled/developmentally disabled individuals (ID/DD) who do not receive Medicaid benefits under any other cash assistance programs. The goal of the NOW program is to help increase independence and quality of life for those with ID/DD. Participants can elect and direct their services as they choose.

Services designed specifically for the population. These services include:

• Services that support employment
• Residential Services
• Specialized medical equipment and supplies
• Vehicle adaptation
• Behavioral support services.

The COMP program is designed for those with a higher level of need. It primarily provides residential care for individuals with ID/DD. One of the goals of this program is to help participants either avoid the need for institutional placement or transition from institutional to community living. Both programs strive to ensure the health, safety and welfare of its participants.

Want to learn more about NOW & COMP?

Do you have a family member who may benefit from a community Medicaid waiver program? As with any Medicaid program there are qualification requirements that must be met in order to receive the benefits. The attorneys at Hurley Elder Care Law can review your situation and explain in detail how the qualifications for these programs work. If you feel that these programs may help your family and are concerned about the eligibility requirements, call our office at 404-843-0121. Our attorneys can illustrate ways that you may be able to access the program benefits for a loved one while protecting your assets.