What is Medicaid?

Medicaid is a public health insurance program that helps cover medical care and long-term supports for eligible individuals. In New York, Medicaid also funds a wide range of community-based services designed specifically for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

How Medicaid Supports People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Through Medicaid, New York State provides funding for services such as:

• Care Coordination and service planning
• Residential supports and housing services
• Day programs and community habilitation
• Employment services and job coaching
• Clinical and behavioral health services
• Respite care for families and caregivers

Many of these services are delivered through the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver, which allows individuals to receive support in their homes and communities rather than in institutional settings.

If You Don’t Have Medicaid

You may still have options.

Even without Medicaid, individuals and families can:

• Access Family support Services (FSS) for limited supports
• Apply for OPWDD eligibility to begin the process
• Pursue waiver services, which may help establish Medicaid eligibility if approved

If services aren’t approved right away, support options may still be available, and you can reapply or appeal as your situation changes.

Navigation eligibility can feel complex, but you do not have to do it alone.

To learn more about your options, Explore Pathways to Enrollment, or reach out to a Care Coordination Organization in your area.

Medicaid recertification is an annual requirement for most people to confirm continued eligibility and maintain active coverage.

For step-by-step guidance on recertification for NY State Medicaid in your area, please continue here – Medicaid Recertification