Getting Started
Eligibility & Intake
Who Qualifies
Understanding Nebraska HCBS Waiver eligibility
Nebraska's Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers are funded through Medicaid and designed to support individuals who need a nursing facility or institutional level of care — but choose to live at home or in their community instead.
Eligibility depends on the specific waiver program, your age, disability type, and Medicaid status. Below you'll find an overview of the main waiver programs Mercy Homecare serves, along with the general eligibility criteria for each.
Waiver Programs
Which waiver program applies to you?
Aged & Disabled (A&D) Waiver
For adults 65+ or adults 19–64 with a physical disability who need nursing facility level of care but choose to remain at home.
General Eligibility
- Age 65 or older, OR age 19–64 with a physical disability
- Nebraska Medicaid eligible
- Require nursing facility level of care
- Able to be safely served in the community
Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver
For individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities who need supports to live and participate in their community.
General Eligibility
- Diagnosed intellectual or developmental disability
- Nebraska Medicaid eligible
- Require intermediate care facility level of care
- Enrolled with Nebraska DHHS Division of Developmental Disabilities
Brain Injury (BI) Waiver
For individuals who have sustained a traumatic or acquired brain injury and need community-based support services.
General Eligibility
- Documented traumatic or acquired brain injury
- Nebraska Medicaid eligible
- Require nursing facility level of care
- Age 18 or older
Children's Medicaid Waiver
For children with significant disabilities who need home and community-based services to remain with their families.
General Eligibility
- Under age 21
- Nebraska Medicaid eligible
- Significant disability requiring waiver-level supports
- Able to be safely served in the home
Eligibility criteria are set by Nebraska DHHS and may change. Contact us or your case manager for the most current information.
The Process
How to get started with Mercy Homecare
The path to services can feel complicated, but we're here to walk alongside you every step of the way.
Contact Us
Call or email our care coordination team. We'll listen to your situation and help you understand which waiver programs may apply.
Medicaid Eligibility
We'll help you confirm or apply for Nebraska Medicaid if you haven't already. This is the foundation for all HCBS Waiver services.
Level of Care Assessment
Nebraska DHHS conducts a level of care assessment to determine if you qualify for waiver services. We can help you prepare.
Waiver Enrollment
Once approved, you'll be enrolled in the appropriate waiver program. A case manager will be assigned to coordinate your services.
Person-Centered Planning
Your case manager works with you to develop a person-centered plan that reflects your goals, preferences, and support needs.
Services Begin
Mercy Homecare receives your referral and our team connects with you to begin delivering your approved services.
Referring a client or patient?
Case managers, social workers, hospital discharge planners, and healthcare providers can refer individuals directly to Mercy Homecare. We make the referral process straightforward and respond promptly to all inquiries.
Common Questions
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to be on Medicaid to receive services?
Yes. Nebraska HCBS Waiver services are funded through Nebraska Medicaid. If you are not currently enrolled in Medicaid, we can help guide you through the application process.
How long does the eligibility process take?
Timelines vary depending on the waiver program and current enrollment capacity. Some waivers have waiting lists. We recommend starting the process as early as possible and can help you navigate each step.
Can I choose my own service provider?
Yes. Nebraska Medicaid HCBS Waiver participants have the right to choose their own qualified providers. You are not required to use any specific agency.
What if I already have a case manager?
If you already work with a case manager or support coordinator, they can refer you directly to Mercy Homecare. We work closely with case management agencies across Nebraska.
Are services available statewide?
We currently serve individuals in 15+ Nebraska counties. Contact us to confirm service availability in your area.
What if I need help right away?
Call us directly at (402) 715-9706. Our care coordinators can help assess your situation and connect you with available resources, including emergency respite if needed.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
We're here to help you navigate the process
Whether you're just starting to explore options or you're ready to begin the referral process, our care coordinators are available to answer your questions and guide you forward.
What to have ready
When you contact us, it helps to have the following information available — but don't worry if you don't have everything yet.
- Nebraska Medicaid ID number (if enrolled)
- Name and contact of current case manager (if applicable)
- Diagnosis or disability documentation
- Current living situation and support needs
- Names of other providers or services involved