MI Choice Waiver

The MI Choice Waiver, offered through CareWell Services Southwest, is a Medicaid-funded program that provides services and supports to people in their own homes — allowing them to receive long-term care at home rather than in a nursing facility. For families determined to keep a loved one at home, it is one of the most comprehensive forms of help available, and at no out-of-pocket cost to those who qualify.

The waiver covers a wide range of in-home services, including adult day care, chore services, community health workers, home modifications, meal delivery, nursing care, respite care, medical equipment, and supports coordination. Eligibility has two parts: a functional standard (applicants must be 18 or older — with a disability required if under 65 — and meet a “frail adult” or disability standard based on an in-home assessment) and a financial standard (qualifying for Medicaid under income and asset limits set annually). CareWell administers the program for eight southwest Michigan counties: Barry, Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren.

This resource matters because the cost of in-home care is a major barrier for families, and many don’t realize a Medicaid program can fully cover an alternative to nursing-home placement. The waiver can dramatically reduce both the financial and hands-on burden on caregivers. To begin, families should contact CareWell Services at (269) 966-2450 or toll-free 1-800-626-6719, which can explain financial details and start the enrollment process.