Get the Latest Scoop on Home and Community-Based Services Through Medicaid
February 22, 2010 - Reports & Studies
Almost three million people are receiving long-term services and supports under Medicaid Home and Community-Based Service (HCBS) programs, according to the most recent data compiled by the Kaiser Family Foundation. Spending totaled $38 billion in 2006, an increase of 8% over the previous year’s figure as stated in the report Medicaid Home and Community-Based Service Programs: Data Update issued on December 18, 2009 by Kaiser.
Money was available from three programs: “the optional 1915(c) HCBS waivers; the mandatory home health benefit; and the optional state plan personal care services benefit.” “Demand for these services continues to increase, with 393,096 individuals on waiting lists for HCBS waiver programs in 2008,” according to Kaiser. “Developing home and community-based service (HCBS) alternatives to institutional care has been a priority for many state Medicaid programs over the last three decades. Demand for these services continues to increase, with 393,096 individuals on waiting lists for HCBS waiver programs in 2008.” The report also includes state breakouts of key data.