Arkansas Medicaid Waivers & Home and Community Based Programs Overview

Arkansas, known as The Natural State, has a well-structured Medicaid Waiver and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) program designed to provide long-term care alternatives for individuals with disabilities, seniors, and those with chronic health conditions. Administered by the Arkansas Department of Human Services (DHS), Division of Medical Services (DMS), and Division of Aging, Adult, and Behavioral Health Services (DAABHS), the state’s Medicaid waiver programs allow eligible individuals to receive services in home and community settings rather than institutional care.

Key waivers include the ARChoices in Homecare Waiver, which serves seniors and adults with physical disabilities; the Community and Employment Support (CES) Waiver, which provides support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD); and the Living Choices Assisted Living Waiver, which offers services in assisted living facilities. Arkansas also offers Self-Directed Services (SDS) options, empowering individuals to have more control over their care providers and support services.

Regulatory oversight in Arkansas is managed through DHS and its various divisions, including the Office of Long-Term Care (OLTC) for licensing and regulatory compliance. Medicaid waiver services are coordinated through Independent Assessment Entities (IAEs) and Arkansas’ PASSE (Provider-Led Arkansas Shared Savings Entity) Program, which integrates physical, behavioral, and home-based care under a managed care model for individuals with complex needs.

Providers must comply with Arkansas Medicaid enrollment, Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) requirements, and strict prior authorization processes to ensure quality service delivery. Additionally, the state emphasizes Person-Centered Planning, employment support initiatives, and community integration efforts to help individuals achieve greater independence.

With a focus on cost-effective care coordination, provider accountability, and consumer choice, Arkansas’ Medicaid waiver system continues to evolve, ensuring that residents receive high-quality, community-based supports tailored to their individual needs.

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Explore Policy and Procedure manual for licensing and certification for your state Medicaid Waiver and HCBS programs here.

Browse Policy & Procedure Manual for This State's Programs and Services