HCBS (Home & Community Based Services) In New York

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Children who are enrolled in a Health Home can be eligible for the HCBS through the 1915c Children's Waiver Program (which launched in 2019). Their Care Manager will help them apply for the waiver if they meet eligibility. The target populations for HCBS are slightly different from the HH populations, here they are outlined below.

1) Having an SED and have been in a mental health institution or hospital within 6 months (note they can not receive HCBS while in a facility but the service can be used as part of their discharge plan)

2) Having an SED, being involved in a multi-system, and at risk for a higher level of care (multi-system means the child is receiving a clinical service such as counseling or medication management and involved in one of the following; child welfare programs, juvenile justice system, homelessness, substance abuse clinic or having an IEP or 504 plan. Please note that if the child is not receiving a clinical service, their care manager can help find them a counselor which will a) provide them with needed mental health support and b) allow them to potentially be eligible for HCBS.

3) Medically Fragile (any child who enters a Health Home under 2 Chronic Conditions, Sickle Cell Anemia or HIV can potentially receive HCBS through this route). In order for a child to be considered Medically Fragile, they either need to have SSI or a NYS disability certificate. Their Care Manager can help the child obtain either one depending on which is the best fit for the family. Additionally, there is a process to start a child on HCBS temporarily while they are waiting for the SSI or disability certificate.

4) Having a developmental delay and being in foster care [For example a child who entered a Health Home under 2 Chronic Conditions (i.e. Autism and a speech delay) and is in foster care, can receive HCBS through this route.]

5) Having a developmental delay and being medically fragile