Arizona Medicaid Waivers & Home and Community Based Programs Overview
- Waiver Policy Analyst
- Mar 23
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 23
Arizona, known as The Grand Canyon State, has a nationally recognized Medicaid Waiver and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) system, operating under a managed care model rather than a traditional fee-for-service approach. Administered by the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS), the state’s Medicaid program includes specialized waiver programs that provide long-term services and supports (LTSS) to seniors, individuals with disabilities, and those with developmental or intellectual disabilities (IDD).
Key programs include the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), which serves elderly and physically disabled individuals, and the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Waiver, which provides comprehensive services such as habilitation, personal care, behavioral health, and respite care. Arizona is also a leader in Self-Directed Attendant Care (SDAC), allowing participants to manage their own care providers and services for increased independence.
Regulatory oversight in Arizona is streamlined through AHCCCS and its contracted Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), which administer waiver services under a capitated payment system. The ALTCS program operates through both institutional and HCBS settings, ensuring that individuals receive the right level of care in the most appropriate environment.
Additionally, Arizona has strong Tribal Medicaid Programs, with tribal ALTCS and Indian Health Service (IHS) partnerships ensuring culturally competent care for Native American populations. Providers must comply with AHCCCS provider enrollment, Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements, and strict service authorization guidelines to participate in the system.
With a focus on cost-efficiency, managed care integration, and participant choice, Arizona’s Medicaid waiver system is a model for states looking to balance high-quality service delivery with financial sustainability in long-term care.
Explore Policy and Procedure manual for licensing and certification for your state Medicaid Waiver and HCBS programs here.
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