Description:The transition of health care and Long Term Services and Supports (LTSS) into managed care can be intimidating for people with disabilities who rely on these vital services. Depending on your individual situation, managed care companies may recognize that you have been underserved and authorize increased hours, keep your services and supports the same or cut needed hours from your plan. We have seen the same thing happen to folks in traditional fee-for-service Medicaid LTSS. People with disabilities may face difficulties in addressing their healthcare needs as well.
The Regional Center for Independent Living (RCIL) recognizes that people with disabilities may need information, assistance and advocacy to get the healthcare, services and supports they need. Consequently, the Board has allocated some of our Independent Living funds to support managed care and health care advocacy.
RCIL's Healthcare Advocate is available to help consumers with all aspects of healthcare benefit planning including:
•Assisting with Medicaid, Medicaid Long Term Care, and Medicare;
•Explaining the differences among Managed Care plans;
•Assisting with health plan selection and enrollment into Managed Care;
•Obtaining home services to ensure independence;
•Appealing healthcare denials and serving as an advocate throughout the appeal process; and
•Representing consumers at fair hearings and advocating for the full integration, independence, and civil rights of people with disabilities.
People with disabilities who have benefit questions or concerns about managed care or long term services and supports can contact RCIL at (585) 442-6470.