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Other supports are available enabling the participant to receive additional services on his or her plan, or to decrease the need for more direct services, thereby enhancing a participant’s level of independence. Such Mi Via supports include Emergency Response Services, Environmental Modifications, Related Goods, Respite and Transportation.

To learn more, please see Mi Via Self-Directed Waiver Service Standards, Appendix A. Appendix A: Service Descriptions in Detail

Emergency Response Services

Emergency Response Services (ERS) provide an electronic device enabling a participant to secure help in an emergency at home and thereby avoids institutionalization. Participants may also wear a portable “help” button to allow for mobility. The system is connected to a participant’s phone and programmed to signal a response center when the “help” button is activated. The response center is staffed by trained professionals.

Environmental Modifications

Environmental modification services include purchase and/or installation of equipment and/or making physical adaptations to a participant’s residence necessary to ensure the participant’s health, welfare, and safety or enhance their level of independence. Services provided must be in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local building codes. Home adaptations or improvements for general utility and not having direct medical or remedial benefit to the participant, such as fences, storage sheds or other outbuildings are excluded. Adding to the total square footage of a home is excluded from this benefit except when necessary to complete an adaptation.

Related Goods and Services

Related goods and services are equipment, supplies or services not generally provided through Mi Via, the Medicaid state plan or Medicare. This category does not include services such as housecleaning, yard maintenance, etc. Related goods must be documented in the SSP and approved by the TPA.

Respite

Respite is a flexible family support service providing help to participants, giving the primary, unpaid caregiver time away from his or her duties. If a paid primary caregiver resides with the participant, providing living supports and/or community membership supports, respite services cannot be utilized.

Transportation

Transportation services are offered to enable participants to gain access to waiver and non-medical community services, events, activities and resources, as specified by the SSP, and related to community resources, services, work, volunteer sites, homes of local family or friends, civic organizations, social clubs, public meetings, civic activities, and spiritual activities or events. Transportation for vacation is not covered through the Mi Via Program.