Independent Care Waiver Program
Empowering adults with physical impairments or traumatic brain injuries to achieve dignified, independent lives within their communities.
Target Population
Services are directed toward adults between 21 and 64 years of age who have a severe physical impairment and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI) and require assistance from another person. These individuals must be medically stable but at risk of hospital or nursing facility placement without community-based support services.
Program Goal
The goal of the Independent Care Waiver Program is to assist functionally impaired adults in achieving dignified and reasonably independent lives within their communities. Through comprehensive support services, we help individuals maintain their independence, prevent institutionalization, and improve their overall quality of life.
Services Offered
Comprehensive care services tailored to meet individual needs
Personal Support Services (PSS)
Comprehensive assistance with personal care, daily living activities, and home management tasks.
Skilled Nursing
Professional nursing services for individuals requiring medical care and monitoring in their homes.
Respite Care
Temporary relief services for primary caregivers to support family well-being and prevent burnout.
Adult Day Services
Structured daytime programs providing social interaction, activities, and supervision.
Behavior Management
Professional support for managing behavioral challenges and developing positive coping strategies.
Counseling
Mental health support and therapeutic services to address emotional and psychological needs.
Specialized Medical Equipment and Supplies
Provision of necessary adaptive equipment and medical supplies to support daily functioning.
Environmental Modifications
Home modifications and adaptations to improve accessibility, safety, and independence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most common questions about the Independent Care Waiver Program
What is the Independent Care Waiver Program (ICWP) in Georgia?
The Independent Care Waiver Program (ICWP) is a Georgia Medicaid waiver that provides community-based services for adults aged 21–64 who have severe physical impairments or traumatic brain injuries (TBI). ICWP helps individuals live independently in the community rather than in a nursing facility or other institutional setting.
Who qualifies for the ICWP in Georgia?
Adults between the ages of 21 and 64 with a severe physical impairment and/or traumatic brain injury (TBI) who require assistance from another person may qualify. Individuals must be medically stable but at risk of hospital or nursing facility placement without community-based support services, and must be enrolled in Georgia Medicaid.
What services does the ICWP cover?
ICWP covers Personal Support Services (PSS), skilled nursing, respite care, adult day services, behavior management, counseling, specialized medical equipment and supplies, and environmental modifications to help individuals remain safely at home.
How do I apply for the ICWP in Georgia?
Contact the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) or the Division of Aging Services to begin the application process. You will need a Medicaid eligibility determination and a functional assessment. Once approved, a Care Manager will help develop a plan and connect you with providers. Call us at (678) 644-0337 for guidance.
Can the ICWP help someone with a traumatic brain injury stay at home?
Yes. The ICWP is specifically designed to support adults with traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and severe physical impairments who need assistance to live independently. Through services like personal support, skilled nursing, behavior management, and home modifications, ICWP helps individuals remain safely in their own homes and communities.
Helpful Links
Official Georgia and federal government resources for the Independent Care Waiver Program
Ready to Learn More?
Contact us today to discuss how the ICWP program can benefit you or your loved one. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you through the process.