Navigating Georgia's Medicaid Waiver Programs: Which One Is Right for You?

What Are Medicaid Waiver Programs?

Medicaid waiver programs allow states to provide home and community-based services as an alternative to institutional care. In Georgia, these programs help people stay in their homes rather than being placed in hospitals, nursing facilities, or other institutions. You can find a federal overview of HCBS waiver programs on Medicaid.gov.

The word "waiver" refers to the fact that these programs waive certain Medicaid requirements to allow states more flexibility in how they deliver services. The result is a range of programs tailored to different populations and needs. Georgia's full list of waiver programs is available on the Georgia Medicaid waiver programs page.

The Four Main Programs in Georgia

GAPP — Georgia Pediatric Program

Who it serves: Medically fragile children under 21

GAPP is designed for children with complex medical needs who require skilled nursing to stay safely at home. If your child would otherwise need placement in a nursing facility, GAPP may be the right program.

Key services: In-home skilled nursing, personal care support, behavioral support aide services

Learn more: GAPP Program Details

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NOW/COMP — New Options Waiver / Comprehensive Supports Waiver

Who it serves: Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD)

NOW and COMP are two related waivers that serve people with I/DD. The main difference is the level of support: COMP covers individuals with higher support needs, while NOW serves those who need fewer hours.

Key services: Occupational, physical, and speech therapy; behavioral supports; community access; community living supports; respite; transportation

Learn more: NOW/COMP Program Details

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ICWP — Independent Care Waiver Program

Who it serves: Adults aged 21–64 with severe physical impairments or traumatic brain injuries

ICWP focuses on helping adults with physical disabilities or TBI live independently. If you're medically stable but need ongoing support to avoid facility placement, ICWP may be appropriate.

Key services: Personal support, skilled nursing, respite care, adult day services, behavior management, counseling, environmental modifications

Learn more: ICWP Program Details

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EDWP — Elderly & Disabled Waiver Program (CCSP & SOURCE)

Who it serves: Elderly individuals 65+ and disabled adults 21+

EDWP is delivered through two channels — CCSP and SOURCE — and is the broadest program, serving elderly and physically disabled individuals who meet nursing home level of care criteria.

Key services: Personal support, adult day health, respite, skilled nursing, home-delivered meals, emergency response services, structured family caregiver support

Learn more: EDWP Program Details

How to Choose the Right Program

The right program depends on three main factors:

1. Age of the individual — GAPP is for children; ICWP is for adults 21–64; EDWP primarily serves those 65+
2. Type of condition — I/DD conditions point to NOW/COMP; physical disabilities and TBI point to ICWP; medical fragility in children points to GAPP
3. Level of support needed — Some programs offer more intensive services than others

If you're unsure which program applies, that's completely normal. The waiver system is complex by design, and finding the right fit often requires guidance from someone who knows the landscape.

Common Eligibility Requirements

While each program has specific criteria, most Georgia Medicaid waivers share these requirements:

• Georgia Medicaid enrollment — The individual must be an active Georgia Medicaid member
• Functional assessment — A needs evaluation determines eligibility and the level of care
• At risk of institutional placement — The individual would otherwise need a nursing facility, hospital, or similar institution
• Community-based living — The goal is to support the individual in their home or community setting

For EDWP applicants, your local Area Agency on Aging is the starting point. For NOW/COMP or ICWP, contact the Georgia DBHDD.

Getting Started

The first step is always the same: reach out and have a conversation. Whether you call us or submit a referral online, our team will help you understand which program fits your situation and walk you through the application process.