Program Description
The High Technology Home Care Program, also called the Adult High-Tech Nursing Program, is a Vermont Medicaid program that employs a combination of medically necessary technology, supplies, and services. This program is intended to help elderly or disabled Vermont residents whose disabilities or functional ability would otherwise require them to live in a nursing home. Beneficiaries are able to reside in their homes or in the homes of family members or friends.
Technologies that are typically used by program beneficiaries include, but are not limited to, ventilators, feeding tubes, CPAP, and dialysis machines. However, assistance under this program is not limited to medical technology. Skilled nursing care is also available.
While personal care assistance and homemaker services are not offered via this program, these services are available via the Choices for Care program, which operates under the Global Commitment (GC) to Health Waiver. Seniors can be dually enrolled in both the High Tech program and Choices for Care via the GC Medicaid Waiver. The Hi-Tech Nursing Program is under the jurisdiction of the Vermont Department of Disabilities, Aging and Independent Living (DAIL).
Eligibility Guidelines
General Requirements
To be eligible for Green Mountain Care (Vermont’s Medicaid program), applicants must:
- Be a Vermont state resident
- Be 21 years of age or older
- Require skilled nursing care greater than that which is provided via a skilled nursing visit
- Require services more extensive than those offered by a personal care attendant or a home health aide
- Have a primary caregiver that is able to handle the applicant’s care needs and can be trained in the operation of apparatus
- Not be (or be willing to not be) institutionalized
- Be technology dependent
Financial Requirements
Income Limits
One necessary eligibility requirement is to have Vermont Medicaid. To be financially eligible for Regular Medicaid for the aged blind and disabled in Vermont, an individual’s income cannot be greater than $1,300 / month outside Chittenden County, and $1,408 / month in Chittenden County (in 2024).
Asset Limits
Countable assets are also considered. Single applicants are permitted up to $2,000 in countable assets, but their home, provided the value of their home equity does not exceed $713,000, is exempt (not counted toward the total). Other exemptions include household goods and furnishings, a vehicle, and personal items, such as clothing. Couples are permitted $3,000 in assets.
Over the Financial Limits?
Medicaid eligibility can be complicated. Get assistance understanding these Medicaid eligibility rules and to prepare a successful application.
Benefits and Services
The exact services afforded to Hi-Tech Program participants are determined by their individual needs. These might include:
- Skilled Nursing Care (up to 22 hours / day)
- Case Management
- Caregiver Training
- Medical Supplies / Equipment
How to Apply / Learn More
Vermont’s Division of Disability and Aging Services, Department of Disabilities, Aging & Independent Living is responsible for the administration of this program. They offer several ways to contact them to learn more and / or to begin the application process.
One can call 802-241-0294, visit their webpage for additional contact information, or downloadan online form.
