Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) Process The Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS) is a Medicaid program designed to provide long-term care services to eligible Arizona residents who need ongoing assistance due to age, disability, or chronic illness. The process to apply for and receive ALTCS benefits involves several steps:
Financial Eligibility: ALTCS assesses an applicant's income and assets to determine financial eligibility. Income limits and asset thresholds are established, but certain assets, like a primary home or personal belongings, may be exempt. Financial eligibility includes a thorough review of bank statements, property, and other financial resources.
Medical Eligibility: Applicants must demonstrate a medical need for long-term care. This typically involves an assessment by a healthcare professional to evaluate the level of care required, including daily living activities and medical conditions.
Applicants or their representatives must complete and submit an application for ALTCS benefits through the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES) or the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS). This application includes detailed information about the applicant's financial situation, medical history, and personal circumstances.
Once the application is submitted, ALTCS conducts an initial screening to ensure basic eligibility criteria are met. If the applicant passes the initial screening, a more comprehensive evaluation follows. This includes a financial review and a Pre-Admission Screening (PAS) to assess medical needs and the level of care required.
A healthcare professional conducts a PAS to evaluate the applicant’s functional and medical needs. This assessment includes an in-depth review of the applicant’s ability to perform activities of daily living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, eating, and mobility. The PAS helps determine if the applicant meets the medical criteria for ALTCS.
If the applicant is deemed eligible both financially and medically, they are approved for ALTCS benefits. The applicant then selects a managed care organization (MCO) from a list of contracted providers. The chosen MCO will coordinate and manage the applicant’s long-term care services.
Once enrolled, a care plan is developed in collaboration with the applicant, their family, and healthcare providers. This plan outlines the specific services and supports needed, including in-home care, assisted living, or nursing home care, as well as any medical and therapeutic services.
The ALTCS program provides a range of services based on the approved care plan. Services may include medical care, personal care, home health services, respite care, and more. The MCO ensures that the necessary services are delivered and monitors the quality and effectiveness of the care provided.
ALTCS conducts periodic reviews to reassess the eligibility and needs of the participant. Financial and medical reassessments are done regularly to ensure continued eligibility and to adjust the care plan as needed. The ALTCS program is designed to ensure that eligible individuals receive the necessary long-term care services while maintaining their quality of life and independence as much as possible.
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