Medicaid is a nationwide program for low-income seniors that's jointly funded by the state and federal government. Rhode Island manages its own Medicaid program using guidelines put in place by the federal government. While some Medicaid programs offer assistance to children and families, the focus of the Medicaid programs discussed below are for the elderly.
Rhode Island is unique in that its state plan and Medicaid waivers are merged under what is called the Rhode Island Global Consumer Choice Compact Waiver, also known as the Rhode Island Comprehensive Demonstration.
Under this global waiver, a number of services are available, including:
- Personal care
- Homemaker services
- Meal delivery
- Assisted living services
While this waiver may not cover room and board costs at an assisted living community, it may cover other costs associated with living there, such as meals or medical expenses. It's important to check with an individual assisted living community to find out what Medicaid plans they accept and what components of assisted living Medicaid will cover.
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Be aged 65 or older
- Be a resident of Rhode Island
- Be basically homebound, so they are unable to leave home without considerable assistance.
To learn more about eligibility requirements, visit the state's Health and Human Services website, where you can view and print the appropriate PDF to apply for Medicaid benefits. For help with the application, you can call the Department of Human Services Medicaid Provider Help Desk at 401-784-8100 or toll-free 1-800-964-6211.