Autism Waiver Program providing individualized supports that help children with autism and their families thrive at home and in the community.

The Autism Waiver Program is facilitated through Autism Connections, the Autism Support Center serving Western Massachusetts. Autism Connections provide families with information, resources, workshops, training, and community activities designed to support children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families. The program’s goal is to help children remain safe and successful in their homes and communities while building meaningful skills and increasing independence.

UCP of Western Massachusetts is a provider of services through the Massachusetts Children’s Autism Spectrum Disorders Home and Community-Based Services Waiver Program, commonly referred to as the Autism Waiver Program. This federally approved Medicaid program, administered through the Massachusetts Department of Developmental Services (DDS), provides individualized supports and services for eligible children diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder.

The waiver program utilizes a participant directed model in which families take an active role in developing their child’s individualized Autism Support Plan and selecting providers based on their child’s assessed needs. Families may access an individualized annual budget of up to $25,000 to support approved services and interventions.

UCP provides Expanded Habilitation Education services, including evidence-based in-home and community supports such as Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), developmental and relational approaches such as communication interventions, adaptive skill development, and behavioral support services. Additional waiver supports may include respite services, community integration activities, family training, adaptive aids, and individualized services designed to support the child’s overall development and participation within their family and community.

Intensive in-home waiver services may be provided for up to three years. Following completion of intensive services, children may continue accessing supplemental waiver supports, such as respite and individualized services, until their 10th birthday, based on eligibility and assessed need.

To qualify for the Autism Waiver Program, children must:

• Have a confirmed diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder
• Be under the age of 10
• Reside in Massachusetts
• Meet DDS and MassHealth eligibility requirements
• Be safely supported within the home and community setting

An Open Interest Application period is typically held annually, with information generally becoming available in September. UCP can assist families with understanding eligibility requirements and navigating the application process.

More information about the Autism Waiver Program can be found here: https://www.mass.gov/dds-childrens-autism-waiver-service-program-overview