ACLU Wins Appeal Challenging Indiana Medicaid Waiver Program

Photo: Tips Times (Flickr)

Changes the state made to requirements needed to obtain certain waivers meant some beneficiaries received less money for such services.

An appeals court has ruled against the Indiana Family and Social Services Administration in a case challenging changes the agency made regarding Medicaid waivers for people with disabilities.

The waivers allow those with disabilities to receive care outside of institutions and group homes, and, the ACLU argues, “to live in their communities even though their disabling conditions would otherwise require they be placed in an institution.” The waivers cover the costs of services such as home health aides.

But changes the state made to requirements needed to obtain certain waivers meant some beneficiaries received less money for such services.

The ACLU challenged the change, saying the move violates a segment of the Americans with Disabilities Act, the “integration mandate,” which requires states to offer services in the least restrictive manner possible. The plaintiffs say the loss of funds meant they lost independence and the ability to take part in community

Article source: https://health.einnews.com/article/325980572/kHToqPxEPKHveC8g?ref=rss&ecode=uiQ1mLaH2KVPSS4e