Adult Medicaid Medical Assistance Programs

Aged, Blind, or Disabled Medicaid Classes of Assistance

• Public Law Medicaid can continue Medicaid coverage for individuals who had previously been eligible for Medicaid due to receipt of SSI, but who became ineligible for this program, and consequently became ineligible for Medicaid, due to either an initial entitlement to Retirement, Survivors, Disability Insurance (RSDI) or an increase in RSDI.
• Institutionalized/Home-Based Program covers aged, blind or disabled persons who are in an institution or home-based program for 30 continuous days. This program uses an income limit that is 3 times the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limit. It includes individuals in a hospital or nursing home as well as other individuals.
  • Hospital Medicaid covers aged, blind or disabled persons who are in a hospital for 30 days or in a nursing home. This program uses an income limit that is 3 times the SSI income limit.
  • Hospice Care Medicaid provides Medicaid to terminally ill persons who wish to receive services at home or in a Medicaid participating nursing home from a hospice care provider. This type of Medicaid uses the same income and resource limits as listed above.
• Waiver Classes of Assistance provides additional services above what regular Medicaid pays. Each program defines what expenses are covered.
  • Community Care Services Program Medicaid (CCSP) provides coverage to persons who wish to receive treatment under the Community Care Services Program at home rather than enter a nursing home.
  • New Option Waiver (NOW) and Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) are designed to provide in-home and community-based services to Medicaid eligible mentally retarded and developmentally disabled individuals who do not receive Medicaid benefits under a cash assistance program.
  • Independent Care Waiver Program (ICWP) provides Medicaid for individuals who meet criteria for Nursing Home placement, but remain at home. These individuals are severely physically disabled or have traumatic brain injuries. These individuals need more care than can be provided by CCSP.
• Q-track Classes of Assistance provide limited benefits to Medicare eligible individuals. Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMB) acts as a medical coverage supplement to persons on Medicare. The income limit is 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL) and the resource limit is twice the SSI limit. QMB pays the Medicare premium, deductible, and co-payment for Medicare recipients.
  • Specified Low-Income Medicare Beneficiary (SLMB) is a class of Medicaid assistance that pays the monthly premium for Medicare Supplemental Medical Insurance (Part B) for individuals who meet certain financial criteria, but whose income or resources make them ineligible for Medicaid.
  • Qualifying Individuals 1 (QI-1) is a class of assistance that pays the monthly premium for Medicare Supplemental Medical Insurance (Part B) for individuals who meet financial criteria based on a percentage of the FPL. The eligibility criteria are identical to SLMB except that the coverage is time-limited depending on available State funds and the income limit is higher than the SLMB limit.
  • ABD Medically Needy Medicaid (AMN) provides Medicaid for the aged, blind or disabled who cannot qualify for Medicaid any other way. This program allows the individual or family to “spenddown” excess income with their medical expenses as a means of becoming Medicaid eligible.

Resources for Adults with Disabilities

• Living Independence for Everyone (L.I.F.E)
• Center for the Blind and Low Vision
• Georgia Legal Services Program (Savannah Office)
• EmployAbility
• Social Security Administration Disability Benefits

Memorial University Medical Center Health Library

St. Joseph/Candler Health System

What is a Medical Home?

It is a place where the healthcare provider knows you. You can go there to get advice about how you can be well. Your healthcare provider will help you reach your health goals like losing weight, getting your blood pressure under control, learning how to eat right, taking your medications correctly or giving you support with any other health goal you may have. You will find people who care about your overall well-being.

Does the Chatham County Safety Net Planning Council (CCSNPC) provide care?

Not directly, but our family of providers does.

Does CCSNPC provide insurance?

No. Our providers do not require that you have health insurance. Depending on the provider you choose there is staff available to assist you with enrolling into Medicaid, Peachcare for Kids and/or a plan offered through the Marketplace.

How do I find a Medical Home?

Visit our Healthcare page. You will find information about each of our providers. There is also important information about who qualifies for health care at each location and what to bring with you when you visit for the first time.

Remember, if you are experiencing a medical emergency, you should immediately dial “911” for emergency services.

What if I don’t have insurance?

Our providers do not require that you have health insurance coverage. Depending on which provider you choose, you will need to bring information with you to confirm that you qualify for care. Typically, this includes documents that verify your income, family size and confirmation of identification.

Each provider has staff that will assist you with applying for Medicaid, PeachCare for Kids and/or ACA coverage.

What if I have no income or I am homeless?

There is a medical home in Chatham County which specializes in providing care to the homeless population.  J.C. Lewis Health Center is the Federally Qualified Health Center designated to care for the homeless. If you have no income, you may choose to visit the J. C. Lewis Health Center, Curtis V. Cooper Primary HealthCare, Inc., St. Joseph’s /Candler Mission Services clinics, St. Mary’s or Good Samaritan. Your visit may be at no or very low cost.

Will I have to pay before I am seen?

At some of the providers, federal regulations require that fees are collected at the time of service. Others have a policy that you must contribute a small donation for your care. Do not be concerned. These fees are extremely reasonable and are not meant to keep you from getting the care you need. You should ask this question when you make your first appointment with the provider you choose so that you will come prepared.

How do I decide which place is best for me?

Each one of our providers is a bit different. First decide who in your family needs care. If you have children or an elderly family member, you may want to explore the Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Care or the J.C. Lewis Health Center. Both are Federally Qualified Health Centers and offer a broad range of health care services.

If you are pregnant, you will find prenatal care at Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Care.

If you are an adult who needs a check up, needs health screening or has chronic disease needing ongoing care, you can choose any of our providers. You may want to find the one with a location and hours which work best with your mode of transportation and schedule.

What are the clinic hours?

These vary by provider, but often include evening hours for your convenience. Please refer to the Healthcare section of this website.

How do I make an appointment?

Appointments are made directly with each provider. The contact numbers are in the Healthcare section. All appointments are made by telephone during business hours.

Some providers accept walk-in patients. This is not recommended! You will have to wait until the people with scheduled appointments are seen. The staff will not be prepared for your visit in advance. It is best that you call for an appointment in advance. If you are sick, call ahead and ask for the best time to arrive.   Unfortunately, you may have to wait, but you will be seen. ??Remember, if you are experiencing symptoms that you feel are life-threatening, call “911” for emergency care immediately.

How long do I have to wait to get an appointment?

This depends on the provider and the care you need. Please call and speak with the providers for information about appointment availability.

What do I need to bring with me?

Each provider has listed their requirements in the Healthcare section of this website, but the best thing to do is to ask when you make an appointment.

How do I get help with prescriptions?

The best thing to do is to tell your health care provider that you need help. You may be referred to a MedBank representative who can help you find the program that is right for you. Click here for more information on prescription assistance.

How do I find dental care?

In the Healthcare section, you will find information about dental care providers for adults and for children. Call the provider directly for information and/or an appointment during the office hours provided.

Is there help with vision or eyeglasses?

Call your provider. Some providers have on-site vision assistance and some have an agreement with an eye doctor who will see you at his or her office.

What kind of health screening is available?

Most providers offer:

• Blood Pressure Checks
• Screening for Diabetes
• Pap Smears
• Mammograms
• HIV/AIDS testing
• Testing and Treatment for Sexually Transmitted Infections
• Pregnancy Tests
• Oral Health Screenings

Check the Healthcare section to find which provider has the services you need.

Are there services for HIV/AIDS or STDs?

Yes, through almost all of our providers. Check the information in the HIV Healthcare section and call the provider to verify that the service you need is something they offer.

What about help with mental illness or addiction?

The Georgia Department of Human Resources has set up a 24/7 telephone service which provides information about all services available for help with mental illness or addiction, for all ages. Counselors are also available to talk to you if you need advice. Call the Georgia Crisis and Access Line at 1-800-715-4225 or visit www.mygcal.com.

What Women’s Health services are available?

Most providers offer:

• Pregnancy Testing
• Pap Smears
• Annual Gynecologic Visits
• Mammograms
• Women’s Health Education
• Testing for Sexually Transmitted Infections
• HIV/AIDS Testing

Prenatal care is available at Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Care.

Are there services for adults?

Yes, all of our providers are ready to care for adults who need check-ups, screening, ongoing care for a chronic disease or advice to address a short-term health issue.

Are there services for children?

Yes, at the Federally Qualified Health Centers, Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Center and J.C. Lewis Primary Health Care. The Chatham County Health Department has a Children’s Services department offering special programs for children as well as immunizations for all ages.

What if I need to see a medical specialist?

Some providers have specialists who come to the clinic site or hold specialty clinics at regularly scheduled times. Please contact a provider listed in the Healthcare section for an appointment. If you require specialty care at an office outside of the clinic, your primary care provider will make every effort to arrange an appointment for you.

How can the Care Navigator help me?

If you are unsure which provider to contact after looking at the Health Care Resources Page, the Care Navigator can help direct you to a provider. She can explain what paperwork you need to bring to your appointment. The Care Navigator can answer your questions about your healthcare options. You can reach the Care Navigator at (912)356-2887.

How about Health Education and Wellness?

Absolutely, yes! Talk to your health caregiver. There are all types of programs within each location and available in the Chatham County community. Depending on your health education needs, you will be matched with the program that is right for you.

How can I volunteer?

You may contact the agencies directly for information on volunteering.

Can I complete my internship/preceptor at your clinic?

You may contact the agencies directly for information on internships and/or preceptors.

How can I donate?

Many of our partner agencies accept donations. You may contact the provider or agency you are interested in donating to directly. ??United Way of the Coastal Empire receives donations on behalf of some of our member agencies. Please contact the local office for additional information.

Chatham County Safety Net Planning Council is a 501(c) 3 non-profit organization. CCSNPC does not accept funds or donations of any kind which are intended for a partner or member organization. However, you may donate directly to CCSNPC administrative fund by contacting the Executive Director’s office.

HIV Testing services are available at these locations:

Chatham CARE Center
107 B Fahm St. Savannah
(912) 651-2253

Curtis V. Cooper Primary Care Center 
106 E. Broad St., Savannah
(912) 527-1000

J.C. Lewis Primary Health Care Center
5 Mall Annex, Savannah
(912) 495-8887

Phoenix Project of Union Mission
525 E. 34th St., Savannah
(912) 231-0123

More resources, click here.

Primary Care Providers manage your medical care. The provider can help you make a plan to get your medications, schedule medical follow-up visits and/or find specialists. Primary Care providers have access to your medical records and monitor your chronic conditions.

Since 2019, the Planning Council has led an effort to develop goals and outcomes for establishing a comprehensive plan to address poor oral health among adults in Chatham County through improved access to care, education, and policy reform.

Who has been involved in the Oral Health Initiative?

The initiative brought together individuals from throughout the metropolitan area with representation from the following organizations:

• Curtis V. Cooper Primary Health Center
• J.C. Lewis Primary Health Center
• Joseph’s/Candler Health Systems (Good Samaritan Center, St. Mary’s Health Center, and the African American Resource Center)
• Georgia Southern University (Jiann-Ping Hsu College of Public Health, Waters College of Health Professions and Parker College of Business
• Savannah Technical College – Dental Hygiene and Dental Assisting Programs
• Coastal Health District – Georgia Department of Public Health
• Augusta State University
• Local Dentists
• Community Members

Why does Oral Health matter?

• Poor oral health has negative impacts on medical health, self-esteem, and employability, disproportionally affecting marginalized populations.
• The separation of oral health from medical health has led to devaluation by both professionals and the public.
• Cost is a major barrier for adults in Chatham County when seeking regular, professional dental care.
• Hospital emergency room use for dental pain continues more than necessary as a means of treatment.

What happened in Chatham County?

In 2020, the Planning Council conducted a community needs assessment of 599 Chatham County residents to determine the unmet oral health care needs (Community Needs Assessment 7-12-2020).  We found that:

• Only 56% of adults 18 and over visited a dentist in the past 12 months.
• 22% of adults 65 and older had lost all teeth.
• 72% of adults 18 and over reported not having any or adequate dental insurance.
• 11% of adults visited a local emergency room for dental pain and care.
• 76% of adults would like to see a dentist more frequently, mainly for preventive services.
• 68% do not seek proper dental care due to high costs.
• 24% report the possibility of needing dentures.
• 89% would use free or low-cost dental services.
• 38% would only use free services.
• The percent of White adults 20+ with untreated dental caries is 23.7%.
• The percent of Black/African American adults 20+ with untreated dental caries is 43.6%.
• The percent of Hispanic adults 20+ with untreated dental caries is 36.7%.

As a result of the Oral Health Needs Assessment, the Oral Health Committee made recommendations to address the oral health needs for citizens of Chatham County.

What is the Planning Council’s first Initiative?

Partnering with Remote Area Medical-RAM®, the Planning Council conducted a Free Adult Dental Event in August of 2021. To learn more visit the Free Adult Dental Clinic page. The clinic served adults in Chatham County with free dental services through the volunteer efforts of local dentists, hygienists, and others.

What are the existing dental resources in the community?

Services offered include preventive cleanings, deep cleanings, sealants, oral cancer screenings, fillings, extractions, and dentures.  Locations at at 106 East Broad Street, Savannah, GA  31401, 912-527-100 and 1501 Abercorn Street, Savannah, GA 31401, 912-527-1085. www.cvcphc.net

Services offered include preventive cleanings, deep cleanings, sealants, oral cancer screenings, fillings, extractions, and dentures.  Located at Annex, 5 Mall, Savannah, GA  31406, 912-495-8887. www.jclewishealth.org

The Chatham County Health Department dental services program provides  comprehensive dental care for children ages 0-17 (Chatham County) with an emphasis on cavity prevention. Services offered include, exams, cleanings, sealants, fillings, extractions, X-rays, fluoride treatments, and caries risk assessment.  Located at 1395 Eisenhower, Savannah, GA  31406, 912-356-2441. Reduced fees are available based on proof of income which should be presented at the first visit. We also accept Medicaid, Amerigroup, Peach State, WellCare, and CareSource. www.gachd.org

The Savannah Volunteer Dental Clinic (opening soon) is a dedicated group of volunteers from the dental community seeking to provide for unmet needs in a vulnerable population. The clinic services children from ages 3-18 who do not have federal, state, or private insurance. 326 Johhny Mercer Blvd Savannah, GA 31410. Call the clinic at 912-429-8368. www.savannahvolunteerdentalclinic.com

Savannah Technical College students provide services to the public in some programs in conjunction with coursework. Please understand that student services are in an educational environment and may take longer than similar services provided by non-educational service providers. The Dental Hygiene Clinic is located at the Savannah campus. Clinic hours vary each semester. 717 White Bluff Rd Savannah, GA 31405. Please call the clinic at (912) 443-5351 to make an appointment. www.savannahtech.edu/departments/dental-hygiene

How can you help with the initiative?

• Dentists, volunteer to provide general dental care pro bono in your office.
• Dental professionals (dentists, hygienists, and dental assistants) volunteer to assist with our 2^nd Annual Free Adult Dental Event.
• Join the Planning Committee for the Free Adult Dental Event (August 2022).
• Volunteer to serve as a Planning Council Oral Health Volunteer at community events.

The article below demonstrates the positive impact the oral health initiative can have on members of our community. Click here to read.

Children and Teens Medicaid Medical Assistance Program

Children’s Special Services
Children 1st
Babies Can’t Wait
Children’s Medical Services
Family Support Services

Children’s Special Services – Referrals

To make a referral to any of the Children’s Special Services (CSS) programs, you may call 912-644-5804, fill out a referral form or stop by the CSS office located at 420 Mall Boulevard in Savannah, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Children 1st

Children 1st is the “single point of entry” for all Children Special Services (CSS) programs. A single call provides easy access to all of the following programs that your child may need.

Children 1st is a state-funded program created by the Georgia Division of Public Health to promote the healthy development of young children and assure that they arrive at school healthy and ready for success. In addition to CSS programs, Children 1st will help you find resources in your community to meet the needs of you and your family.

Contact

There is no cost to you and the program is voluntary. Call 912-644-5804.

Babies Can’t Wait

Babies Can’t Wait (BCW) is Georgia’s Early Intervention program serving children with significant developmental delays, or children who may be at risk for delays due to a diagnosed medical condition. The program provides services to children from birth to age three and their families.

Babies Can’t Wait is a voluntary program and there are no financial eligibility requirements. The staff of BCW provides free evaluations to determine eligibility. Service coordination is also a free service. Other services through the BCW program include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, assistive technology devices, audiology, family training and counseling, nutrition services, psychological services, special instruction and vision services. BCW staff includes a behavior specialist, family therapist, licensed registered nurse, licensed practical nurse, licensed dietitian, orientation/mobility specialist, psychologist, and social worker.

How it works

A Service Coordinator will then contact the parent to set up an intake meeting to explain the program and do a developmental screening. If indicated, additional evaluations will be done to determine eligibility for Babies Can’t Wait. Then the Service Coordinator will write an Individualized Family Service Plan with input from the parent and the evaluators. This plan will identify the goals, what services are needed, who will provide the services and payment. The Service Coordinator can also provide information about other resources such as parent support groups, conferences and workshops, other funding sources for equipment, etc.

Contact

All referrals to Babies Can’t Wait come through Children First, the single point of entry for all Children’s Special Services programs. You may use the referral form or just call 912-644-5806.

Children’s Medical Services

Children’s Medical Services (CMS) provides medical care coordination for children from birth to age 21 who have a disabling condition or chronic disease. CMS can provide assistance with long-term specialized care, medical equipment, medications, physical therapy, hospitalization, occupational therapy, nursing services, family education, social services and case coordination. The goal of CMS is to help each child reach his or her maximum potential. CMS is supported with state and federal funds.

Eligibility for CMS is based on income, type of medical condition and the age of the child. PeachCare, Medicaid, and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) recipients are accepted. Families with or without insurance are also accepted and may (depending on their income) be required to pay a portion of cost based on a sliding fee scale. Examples of medical conditions covered by CMS include asthma, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, scoliosis, seizures, neurological disorders, immune disorders, hydrocephalus, hearing conditions, Down syndrome, craniofacial disorders, cleft lip and palate, orthopedic disorders, cardiac conditions, chronic lung conditions, vision disorders (other than corrective lenses), diabetes, urinary tract disorders, gastrointestinal disorders and genetic disorders.

Contact

For questions, call 912-644-5804.

Family Support Services

Family Support Services is a non-entitlement program which brokers disability specific services based on each individual and families unique needs. Family Support Services are based on the value that families belong together and individuals are best served in the community setting. These supports meet every day needs that are often critical in avoiding family crises. The goal of Family Support Services is to assist in maintaining a cohesive family unit and to assist the individual to live at home in the community.

Family Support Funding assists families in obtaining goods and services necessary to ensure the best possible care for their loved one. Goods and services your family can obtain may include:

• Equine Therapy
• Music Therapy
• Summer Camp
• Specialized Medical Supplies/Clothing /Nutrition
• Dental & Vision Services
• Diagnostic Services
• Recreation/ Leisure Activities
• Environmental & Vehicle Modifications
• Therapeutic services
• Counseling
• Respite Services
• Parent/ Family Training
• Behavior Consultation and support
• Financial and Life Planning
• Travel Reimbursement for medical appointments

Eligibility*

Individuals, age 3 and up, living in Georgia and within a covered county that have been (1) diagnosed with a developmental disability (2) are living at home with their family (3) and are not currently receiving a NOW/COMP Waiver are eligible for Family Support Services.

Eligible diagnoses include, but are not limited to:

• Developmental Disability
• Intellectual Disability
• Cerebral Palsy
• Autism Spectrum Disorders
• Down Syndrome

*Family support funding is not open to children in foster care.

Apply for Services

Families must complete an Application and the Family Support Agreement and provide supporting documentation of the identified developmental disability.

You can apply at the local community-based providers listed below:

B & B Care Services, Inc.
303 S. Laurel St.
P.O. Box 1040
Springfield, GA 31329
912-754-0817
1-800-657-7017
www.BandBCare.com

Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Inc.
Savannah Office
7395 Hodgson-Memorial Drive, Suite 101
Savannah, GA 31406
912-235-6463
www.easterseals.com/southerngeorgia

Gateway Behavioral Health Services
941 E.G. Miles Parkway
Hinesville, GA 31313
912-876-0454
Verlena Hawkins, Family Support Coordinator
vhawkins@gatewaybhs.org

Champions for Children through Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Inc. is a program also offered by Easter Seals that provides support for families whose children are under 18 years of age, live at home, have applied for SSI or Katie Beckett and received a level of care denial but have a physical, cognitive, developmental or medical disability. Services that may be obtained:

• Respite Care/Meghan’s House
• Medical supplies and equipment
• Medical services and therapies
• Assistive technology and equipment
• Dental and optical services
• Travel reimbursements for medical appointments
• Recreational or therapeutic activities
• Other services related to the child’s disability not covered by other payment sources
• Referrals to Parent to Parent of Georgia and other resources

Easter Seals Southern Georgia, Inc.
Savannah Office
7395 Hodgson-Memorial Drive, Suite 101
Savannah, GA 31406
912-235-6463
www.easterseals.com/southerngeorgia

Disability Medicaid for Youth 18 and Under

Institutionalized/Home-Based Program covers aged, blind or disabled persons who are in an institution or home-based program for 30 continuous days. This program uses an income limit that is 3 times the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limit. It includes individuals in a hospital or nursing home as well as other individuals.

• Social Security Benefits for Disabled Children.  All family must apply through the Social Security Administration and be screened for SSI if they have a child with a documented disability and want the child to have disability Medicaid.  If denied based on income, a family can then apply for the Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver (KB) as that program waives income and eligibility is solely based on the child’s level of disability.  Please keep your denial letter as that is important to submit with the KB application.  KB provides a child the disability health coverage the same as SSI but does not provide supplemental income.
• Katie Beckett Deeming Waiver Medicaid provides Medicaid to blind or long-term disabled children at risk of entering an institution. This Medicaid coverage allows the child to be cared for at home rather than having to enter a nursing home. To determine eligibility for Medicaid under Katie Beckett, consideration of the parents’ income and resources is “waived”. Only the child’s monthly income and resources are considered.  Qualification is not based on medical diagnosis; instead it is based on the institutional level of care the child requires. Title 42 Code of Federal Regulations outlines the criteria used to determine eligibility.
• Applications may be obtained from the county Division of Family and Children Services (DFCS) office in the child’s county of residence or by contacting the Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team at 678-248-7449.

The completed application should be mailed to:
Right From the Start Medicaid Project Centralized Katie Beckett Medicaid Team
5815 Live Oak Parkway
Suite 2-D
Norcross, GA 30093-1700

Waiver Classes of Assistance provides additional services above what regular Medicaid pays. Each program defines what expenses are covered.

• New Option Waiver (NOW) and Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) are designed to provide in-home and community-based services to Medicaid eligible mentally retarded and developmentally disabled individuals who do not receive Medicaid benefits under a cash assistance program. Parents may submit an application for children starting at three years old.  Click here for the NOW and COMP Waivers Applications

Resources for Special Needs Children and Teens

Parent 2 Parent of Georgia Roadmap for Success helps parents navigate the system from birth through adulthood.

• Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities
• Savannah-Chatham County Public Schools Department of Exceptional Children
• Easter Seals of Georgia
• B and B Care Services
• Georgia Legal Services (Savannah Office)
• Lindsey’s Place
• F.R.I.E.N.D.S. of Coastal Georgia
• Center for the Blind and Low Vision