Starting an HCBS Agency in Maine

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


These videos give an overview of the various Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) available in Maine 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 Maine. Explore each section to find the service that best matches your goals or area of interest. 

 

Respite Care

Respite Care Services in Maine provide short-term relief to primary caregivers of individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or age-related conditions. These services allow families to take scheduled breaks or manage emergencies while ensuring their loved one receives the care and supervision they need. Respite is available through MaineCare (Medicaid) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, as well as select state-funded caregiver support programs.

 
 

Supported Employment

Supported Employment Services in Maine are designed to help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism, and other functional limitations prepare for, obtain, and maintain meaningful employment. These services are funded primarily through MaineCare’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, specifically Sections 21 and 29, and are aligned with person-centered goals that promote independence and self-sufficiency.

 
 

Personal Care

Personal Care Services (PCS) in Maine support individuals who need help with daily living activities due to aging, physical or developmental disabilities, or chronic conditions. These services help participants remain at home and engaged in their communities, while reducing reliance on institutional care. PCS are delivered through MaineCare (Medicaid) under programs like the Section 19 Elderly and Adults with Disabilities Waiver, Section 96 Private Duty Nursing and Personal Care, and other long-term services and supports (LTSS) options.

 
 

Sklled Nursing

Skilled Nursing Services in Maine provide in-home clinical care to individuals recovering from illness, managing chronic conditions, or requiring ongoing medical oversight. These services are critical for reducing hospital readmissions, enhancing comfort, and promoting wellness in a familiar setting. They are authorized and reimbursed through MaineCare (Medicaid), Medicare, private insurance, and HCBS Waivers (primarily Sections 19, 21, and 96).

 
 

Community Support Services

Community Support Services in Maine are designed to help individuals with intellectual disabilities or autism live more independently, develop essential life skills, and participate in their communities. These services are funded under MaineCare’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers—particularly Sections 21 and 29—and are often delivered in homes, day programs, and community settings.

 
 

Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology (AT) Services in Maine empower individuals with disabilities to communicate, move, access information, and perform daily tasks more independently. These services include assessments, customization, training, and the provision of devices that address functional limitations. AT is covered through MaineCare (Medicaid) State Plan benefits, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, and through partnerships with programs like AT4Maine and the Maine CITE Coordinating Center.

 
 

Behavioral Health

Behavioral Health Services in Maine address the mental health and substance use needs of children, adults, and families. These services include diagnostic evaluations, therapy, crisis intervention, case management, and peer recovery support. Behavioral health programs are covered under MaineCare (Medicaid), and often coordinated through Section 13 Targeted Case Management, Section 17 Community Support Services, Section 28 and 65 for children, and OBH grants for uninsured or underserved populations.

 
 

Habilitation Services

Habilitation Services in Maine help individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) acquire, retain, and improve life skills that promote independence, self-determination, and full participation in home and community life. These services are offered through MaineCare (Medicaid) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers, including Section 21 (Comprehensive Waiver) and Section 29 (Support Waiver).

 
 

Family Support Services

Family Support Services in Maine are designed to help families who care for children or adults with developmental disabilities or autism. These services provide relief, resources, and training to help families navigate caregiving responsibilities, reduce burnout, and maintain stability at home. Services are often funded under MaineCare’s Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers—primarily Sections 21, 29, and 28—and may be delivered in the home or community.

 
 

Case Management

Case Management Services in Maine help individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or behavioral health needs navigate service systems, connect with resources, and achieve personal goals through person-centered planning. Case Managers play a critical role in developing, monitoring, and adjusting Plans of Care (POC) under both Medicaid-funded Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and state programs.

 
 

Transportation Services

Transportation Services in Maine provide non-emergency rides for individuals enrolled in MaineCare (Medicaid) and various waiver programs to access medical appointments, waiver-approved services, and community integration activities. These services play a critical role in ensuring that people with disabilities, seniors, and those with chronic health conditions can participate in healthcare, habilitation, and daily life with dignity and independence.

 
 

Home Health Services

Home Health Care Services in Maine help individuals—especially seniors and persons with disabilities—maintain independence by delivering medical and non-medical care in the comfort of their homes. These services are funded through MaineCare (Maine’s Medicaid program), including Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, private insurance, and Medicare for eligible individuals.

 
 

Meal & Nutrition Services

Meal Services in Maine play a critical role in promoting the health, safety, and independence of individuals with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or age-related limitations. These services are authorized under various MaineCare (Medicaid) programs and waivers, and may include home-delivered meals, congregate meals, and customized dietary support coordinated with healthcare providers.

 
 

Environmental Modification

Environmental Modification Services in Maine involve physical adaptations to a participant’s home or vehicle to enhance safety, mobility, and independence for individuals with disabilities or chronic conditions. These services are covered under several MaineCare (Medicaid) Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver programs and require prior authorization based on functional need.