5 Steps To Apply For Maryland Autism Waiver

Quick Links :

Maryland Autism Waiver, also known as the Autism Waiver, is a Medicaid waiver program designed to provide financial assistance to individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in Maryland. The program aims to support individuals with ASD in achieving their full potential by providing access to necessary services and support. If you or a family member is affected by ASD and is seeking to apply for the Maryland Autism Waiver, here's a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the process.

Understanding the Eligibility Criteria

Before we dive into the application process, it's essential to understand the eligibility criteria for the Maryland Autism Waiver. To be eligible, an individual must:

• Be a resident of Maryland
• Have a diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)
• Be under the age of 21 (or have a waiver extension until age 22)
• Meet the program's financial eligibility requirements
• Require a level of care that is typically provided in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID)

Step 1: Determine Eligibility and Gather Required Documents

The first step in applying for the Maryland Autism Waiver is to determine if you or your family member meets the eligibility criteria. You'll need to gather the following documents:

• A diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a qualified professional
• Proof of Maryland residency
• Proof of income and resources
• Identification documents (e.g., driver's license, passport)

Step 2: Submit an Application to the Maryland Department of Health

Once you've gathered the required documents, you'll need to submit an application to the Maryland Department of Health. You can do this by:

• Visiting the Maryland Department of Health's website and submitting an online application
• Contacting your local health department or Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) office to request an application
• Mailing a paper application to the Maryland Department of Health

Step 3: Complete a Functional Assessment

After submitting your application, you'll be required to complete a functional assessment. This assessment will evaluate your or your family member's needs and determine the level of care required. The assessment will be conducted by a qualified professional and will include:

• A comprehensive evaluation of your or your family member's physical, emotional, and behavioral needs
• A review of your or your family member's medical history
• An assessment of your or your family member's ability to perform daily living activities

Step 4: Develop a Service Plan

If you or your family member is deemed eligible for the Maryland Autism Waiver, you'll work with a service coordinator to develop a service plan. This plan will outline the services and support you or your family member will receive, including:

• Respite care
• Occupational therapy
• Speech therapy
• Behavioral therapy
• Medical services

Step 5: Review and Update Your Service Plan

Finally, you'll need to review and update your service plan regularly. This will ensure that you or your family member is receiving the necessary services and support to achieve your goals. You'll work with your service coordinator to:

• Review your progress
• Update your service plan as needed
• Make changes to your services and support

Gallery of Maryland Autism Waiver Images

FAQs

We hope this guide has been helpful in navigating the application process for the Maryland Autism Waiver. Remember to stay patient and persistent throughout the process, and don't hesitate to reach out to your local health department or Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) office for support.