Medicaid for Parents
Medicaid for Parents
Since 1993 the State of Michigan has participated in a federal Medicaid program called School Based Services. The program assists school districts by providing partial reimbursement for medically related services that are listed on a student’s Individualized Educational Program (IEP), Non-Public Service Plan (NPSP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
In 2019 a new program was added to expand School Based Services to general education students who have a Health Care Plan, Plan of Care and/or need for crisis intervention. Although this partial reimbursement is available only for students who are Medicaid eligible, these services are also provided to all students regardless of their Medicaid eligibility status.
The Michigan School Services Program is under the direction of the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS).
Information for Parents
Information for Parents
Is there a cost to me?
No. Services are provided to students while they are at school at no cost to the parent/guardian.
Will it impact my family's Medicaid benefits?
No. The School Services Program does not impact a family's Medicaid services, funds or limits. Michigan operates the School Services Program differently from the Family Medicaid program. The School Services Program does not affect your family's Medicaid benefits in any way.
What does the School-Based Services program cover?
- Crisis Interventions
- Nursing
- Psychological/Social Work/Counseling
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Speech & Language
- Orientation & Mobility
- Assistive Technology Services
- Evaluations
- Developmental Testing
- Case Management
- Personal Care
- Special Education Transportation
What type of information about your child will be shared?
In order to submit claims for School Services reimbursement, the following types of records may be required: first name, last name, middle name, address, date of birth, student ID, Medicaid ID, disability, service dates, and the types of services delivered.
Who will see this information?
Information about your child’s School Services may be shared with the Michigan Medicaid agency and its affiliates for the purpose of verifying Medicaid eligibility and submitting claims.
What if you change your mind?
You have the right to withdraw consent to disclose your child’s personally identifiable information to the Michigan Medicaid agency and its affiliates at any time.
Will your consent or refusal affect your child’s services?
No. Regardless of whether you have Medicaid coverage or not (and whether you provide consent or not) the school district will still provide services to your child pursuant to their plan of care (IEP, IFSP, individualized health plan, etc.).
What if you have questions?
Please call your school district’s Special Education department with questions or concerns, or to obtain a copy of the parental consent form.
How can I help assure my school district receives benefits from the School Services Program?
School districts have been participating in the Medicaid School Services Program since 1993, but recently, federal regulations changed to require the parent/guardian:
- To be fully informed about the School Services Program
- To provide consent to bill Medicaid for medical, crisis, case management and transportation services provided to your child within the school day
- To understand that consent is voluntary
You can help by providing your written consent, which allows your school district to continue to participate in the School Services Program. In times of reduced state funding for schools, all reimbursements are extremely important.
For more information regarding your child or case, contact your local school district. If you need any assistance, you can also contact the Kent County Department of Human Services or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
