On May 24th, 2019, Governor Bill Lee signed legislation to create a Katie Beckett Program into law in Tennessee.
A Katie Beckett Program will establish a pathway to Medicaid and essential wraparound home-and community-based services for children (under age 18) at home, whose condition qualifies them for institutional care, regardless of parent income and resources.
After becoming law, the TennCare Bureau has 120 days to submit an amendment to the state's 1115 Waiver to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to create the program. During this time, there will be opportunities for family, provider and community input on the design of the program.
Here are resources to help you think about the design of the program to best meet child and family needs:
Recommended core principles for Katie Beckett Program Design
Overview of eligibility for the Katie Beckett Program
Potential services available in the Katie Beckett Program
Katie Beckett & TN Programs for Kids with Disabilities July 2019