Understanding Residential Housing and Waiver Services in Ohio

Understanding Residential Housing and Waiver Services in Ohio

Families and professionals often encounter several different programs when searching for residential housing and support services in Ohio.

One of the most important distinctions to understand is that residential housing and Medicaid or DODD waiver services are not necessarily the same thing.

Understanding that difference can make the referral and placement process easier to navigate.

What Is Residential Housing?

Residential housing provides the individual's living environment.

Depending on the residence, services may include:

  • Room and board

  • Meals

  • Daily structure

  • Supervision

  • Household support

  • Community integration

  • Assistance maintaining routines

Specific residential services vary by provider and setting.

What Are Medicaid and DODD Waiver Services?

Eligible individuals may receive services authorized through Medicaid or Ohio developmental disability waiver programs.

These services are based on the individual's eligibility, assessed needs, and approved service plan.

Examples may include:

  • Homemaker Personal Care

  • Participant-Directed Homemaker Personal Care

  • Non-Medical Transportation

  • Home Delivered Meals

  • Other approved community-based supports

What Is Homemaker Personal Care?

Homemaker Personal Care, commonly referred to as HPC, may provide assistance with activities that help eligible individuals live successfully in their homes and communities.

Supports may involve daily living skills, personal care, household routines, community activities, and other authorized goals.

What Is Non-Medical Transportation?

Non-Medical Transportation, or NMT, can provide transportation for eligible waiver participants when the service is authorized through the individual's plan.

The purpose of NMT is to support access to approved community activities and services.

Who Determines Waiver Eligibility?

Residential providers do not determine Medicaid or DODD waiver eligibility.

Eligibility and authorized services are determined through the appropriate state, county, Medicaid, DODD, SSA, care-management, or other responsible entity depending on the program.

Because program requirements can change, individuals, families, and providers should verify current requirements with the appropriate agency.

How Walker Wellness Homes Can Help

Walker Wellness Homes provides adult residential housing and also has staff who serve as independent providers for authorized DODD and Medicaid waiver services.

If you are considering residential placement and are unsure where to begin, our team can explain our residential services, referral process, and the information that may be needed to explore placement.

Contact Walker Wellness Homes to learn more about residential options and current availability.

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