What Is the CHILD Waiver?

The CHILD Waiver (Community Health for Improved Lives and Development) is a new 1915(c) Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver program proposed by the state of Kentucky.

It is designed to support children and youth under age 21 with complex behavioral health or developmental needs by offering care and resources that help them live safely and successfully at home, in school, and in their communities.

The waiver is expected to launch in January 2026, pending federal approval.

Who Is Eligible?

To qualify for the CHILD Waiver, a child must:

  • Be under 21 years old
  • Be eligible for Kentucky Medicaid
  • Require an institutional level of care, such as:
    • Psychiatric Residential Treatment Facility (PRTF)
    • Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID)

This waiver is especially designed for children who:

  • Are involved in multiple systems (e.g., foster care, behavioral health, developmental supports)
  • Are at risk of out-of-home placement
  • Need wraparound, trauma-informed services

What Services Will Be Covered?

The CHILD Waiver will offer a range of community-based supports, including:

  • 📋 Case Management
  • ⏳ Respite Care
  • 🏠 Community Living Supports
  • ♻ Environmental and Home Modifications
  • 🧐 Clinical & Therapeutic Services
  • 🏨 Supervised Residential Care

These services are meant to reduce the need for institutional placement and help families support their child at home and in the community.

Timeline and Public Input

  • ✉️ Public Comment Period: June 16 – July 15, 2025
  • 📅 Submission to CMS: August 2025
  • ⏰ Anticipated Launch: January 2026

You can share your comments or questions by contacting:

We are following the development of this waiver closely to assess how it may complement our programs.

Learn More

Stay tuned for updates as this program evolves!