HCBS Waiver Services
HCBS Waiver Services – What They Are and What They Offer
The Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver is a New York State Medicaid program designed to help children and youth with significant medical, behavioral health, developmental, or complex trauma-related needs remain safely at home and in their communities—rather than being placed in institutional or residential care.
HCBS provides individualized, flexible supports that address a child’s functional needs, emotional well-being, and family stability. These services are tailored to each child’s unique circumstances and are intended to improve daily functioning, reduce risk factors, strengthen family systems, and promote long-term independence and success.
What the HCBS Waiver Offers
Caregiver and Family Support
Services that help parents and caregivers manage stress, build skills, and maintain family stability while caring for a child with complex needs.
Community Integration and Skill-Building
Supports that help children develop social skills, communication abilities, emotional regulation, and independent living skills so they can participate more fully in school and community life.
Crisis Prevention and Stabilization
Interventions that reduce the risk of psychiatric hospitalization, residential placement, or involvement with higher-level systems of care.
Behavioral and Emotional Support Services
Individualized interventions to address trauma, anxiety, depression, behavioral challenges, and emotional dysregulation.
Respite Services
Temporary relief for caregivers to prevent burnout and support family sustainability.
Habilitation and Life Skills Training
Services that help children build routines, self-care skills, problem-solving abilities, and functional independence.
Supportive Employment and Educational Supports (when applicable)
Assistance with school functioning, transitions, and age-appropriate vocational readiness.
How Compass Case Management Helps
Compass Case Management works closely with families to:
- Determine HCBS eligibility
- Coordinate required assessments and documentation
- Develop a person-centered Plan of Care
- Connect families to qualified HCBS providers
- Advocate for appropriate service authorizations
- Monitor progress and adjust services as needs change
Our goal is to ensure that every child receives the right supports, at the right time, in the least restrictive environment possible.
Our Commitment
At Compass Case Management, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to thrive at home, in school, and in their community. The HCBS Waiver is a powerful tool that allows families to access meaningful, life-changing supports—while keeping children connected to the people and places that matter most.