Starting an HCBS Agency in Louisiana

What You Need to Know About Starting a Specific HCBS Agency in Louisiana


These videos give an overview of the various Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) available in Louisiana for providers who want to learn how to start or operate an HCBS agency in the state. Each video explains the purpose of the service, provider requirements, licensing process, and how the program functions. Use these videos to better understand the responsibilities, standards, and steps involved in becoming or working with approved HCBS providers in Louisiana. Explore each section to find the service that best matches your goals or area of interest.

Respite Care

Respite Care Services in Louisiana offer short-term, substitute care for individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related limitations—giving unpaid caregivers a break while ensuring the individual continues to receive needed support. Respite services are authorized under several Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, and may occur in-home, at licensed facilities, or in community settings.

 
 

Supported Employment

Supported Employment Services in Louisiana help individuals with disabilities achieve meaningful employment through personalized job development, on-the-job training, and ongoing support. These services are authorized under various Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and coordinated with the Louisiana Rehabilitation Services (LRS) to ensure participants work in inclusive, community-based setting.

 
 

Personal Care

Personal Care Services (PCS) in Louisiana provide hands-on support with daily living activities for individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related needs. These services help Medicaid participants remain in their homes or community-based settings by assisting with tasks they cannot safely perform on their own. PCS are available under the Louisiana Medicaid State Plan, Community Choices Waiver (CCW), and EPSDT services for youth under 21.

 
 

Personal Emergency Response System

Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) Services in Louisiana enable Medicaid waiver participants—especially seniors and individuals with disabilities—to remain safely at home by offering 24/7 access to emergency assistance. These services support independence while ensuring timely intervention in the event of falls, medical incidents, or safety concerns.

 
 

Skilled Nursing

Skilled Nursing Services in Louisiana provide Medicaid waiver participants with medically necessary nursing care delivered by licensed professionals in home or community-based environments. These services are critical for individuals who require regular medical oversight, complex care management, or support with chronic conditions—enabling them to remain in their homes rather than institutional settings.

 
 

Community Integration & Habilitation

Community Integration and Habilitation Services in Louisiana help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), acquired brain injuries, and other support needs develop life skills and actively participate in their communities. These services are available through Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and are structured to promote independence, community belonging, and reduced reliance on institutional care.

 
 

Prevocational Services

Prevocational Services in Louisiana support individuals with disabilities in developing the foundational skills needed for future competitive employment. These services focus on work readiness, soft skills, and appropriate workplace behaviors and are delivered through structured training programs authorized under the state’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.

 
 

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Louisiana help individuals with disabilities and complex needs perform tasks they would otherwise be unable to accomplish due to physical, sensory, or cognitive impairments. These services are covered under specific Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and are intended to increase independence, safety, and community participation.

 
 

Behavioral Health

Behavioral Health Services in Louisiana help individuals with mental illness, emotional challenges, and substance use disorders receive comprehensive treatment in their communities. These services are delivered through Louisiana Medicaid Managed Care and approved providers under the direction of the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) and its Office of Behavioral Health (OBH).

 
 

Home Modification

Home Modification Services in Louisiana offer vital support to individuals enrolled in Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers by funding structural changes to their living environments. These modifications help individuals with disabilities, functional limitations, or chronic conditions live more independently, reduce falls and injuries, and avoid institutionalization.

 
 

Nursing Facility Transition

Nursing Facility Transition Services in Louisiana assist eligible Medicaid participants in moving from nursing homes or other institutional settings into community-based residences. These services are part of Louisiana’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and federal initiatives like Money Follows the Person (MFP). The goal is to ensure that individuals have the necessary resources and coordination to successfully relocate to the least restrictive, most integrated setting possible.

 
 

Case Management

Case Management Services in Louisiana help individuals enrolled in Medicaid and waiver programs access the care and resources they need to live independently. Case managers work directly with participants, families, providers, and state agencies to assess needs, develop individualized care plans, and coordinate service delivery across health, behavioral, and social domains.

 
 

Adult Day Health Services

Adult Day Health Services (ADHS) in Louisiana provide structured, community-based programs that offer medical supervision, therapeutic activities, personal care, and social engagement for adults with physical, cognitive, or behavioral health needs. These services help delay or prevent institutionalization by giving participants the support they need during the day while allowing them to live at home or with family caregivers.

 
 

Transportation Assistance

Transportation Assistance Services in Louisiana provide non-emergency rides for Medicaid participants to access medical appointments, waiver services, and essential community supports. These services reduce isolation, ensure continuity of care, and promote independent living for individuals who cannot drive or safely use public transportation due to age, disability, or medical need.

 
 

Home Health Care

Home Health Care Services in Louisiana provide skilled nursing, therapy, and aide services to Medicaid participants with acute or chronic health conditions. These services enable individuals to receive medical and rehabilitative care at home, reducing the need for hospital or nursing facility admissions, and supporting recovery, stability, and independence.

 
 

Meal & Nutrition Services

Meal and Nutrition Services in Louisiana provide eligible Medicaid waiver participants with access to nutritionally balanced meals, specialized dietary supports, and food-related education. These services are designed to help individuals maintain their health, manage chronic conditions, and remain safely in their homes or community settings, reducing the risk of hospitalization or institutional care.