Medicaid
Since 1993 the State of Michigan has participated in a federal Medicaid program called School Based Services. The program assists school districts by providing partial reimbursement for medically related services that are listed on a student’s Individualized Educational Program (IEP), Non-Public Service Plan (NPSP) or Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP).
In 2019 a new program was added to expand School Based Services to general education students who have a 504 Plan, Health Care Plan, Plan of Care and/or need for crisis intervention. Although this partial reimbursement is available only for students who are Medicaid eligible, these services are also provided to all students regardless of their Medicaid eligibility status.
The Michigan School Based Services program is under the direction of the Michigan Department of Community Health.
Information for Parents
Is there a cost to me?
No. Services are provided to students while they are at school at no cost to the parent/guardian.
Will it impact my family's Medicaid benefits?
No. The School Based Services program does not impact a family's Medicaid services, funds or limits. Michigan operates the School Based Services program differently than the Family Medicaid program. The School Based Services program does not affect your family's Medicaid benefits in any way.
What does the School Based Services program cover?
- Crisis Interventions
- Nursing
- Psychological/Social Work/Counseling
- Occupational Therapy
- Physical Therapy
- Speech & Language
- Orientation & Mobility
- Assistive Technology Services
- Evaluations
- Developmental Testing
- Case Management
- Personal Care
- Special Education Transportation
How can I help assure my school district receives benefits from the School-based Services program?
School districts have been participating in the Medicaid School-based Services program since 1993, but recently Federal regulations changed to require the parent/guardian:
- To be fully informed about the School-based Services program
- To provide consent to treat and provide intervention and support services to your child within the school day
- To provide consent to bill Medicaid for medical, behavioral and mental services provided for your child within the school day
- To understand that consent is voluntary
You can help by providing your written consent which allows your school district to continue to participate in the School Based Services program. In times of reduced state funding for schools, all reimbursements are extremely important.
For more information regarding your child or case, contact your local school district. If you need any assistance, you can also contact the Kent County Department of Human Services or the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services.
