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Understanding what ALTCS covers for non-medical home care in Arizona can guide families facing significant caregiving needs. The Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS), part of AHCCCS, offers long-term support for individuals who meet both financial and medical eligibility, and helps keep them safe and independent at home instead of a nursing facility or assisted living facility
What Non‑Medical Home Care Services ALTCS Covers
ALTCS covers a range of home and community based services, including:
- Personal care: bathing, dressing, toileting
- Meal preparation tailored to dietary needs
- Light housekeeping for safe living
- Mobility support and fall prevention
- Supervision to prevent injury
- Shopping and transportation to appointments
These services help individuals with activities of daily living, allowing them to remain at home rather than move into a nursing home.
Flexibility in How Services Are Delivered
ALTCS allows participants to receive care through:
- Agency-based Direct Care Workers, or
- Self-directed care, where the member hires their own caregivers
Care plans are tailored around each person’s needs, offering flexible support at home or in assisted living facilities. Services adapted to individual needs help ensure participants can continue living safely in familiar surroundings.
Programs Included under ALTCS
In addition to home care, ALTCS’s managed care plans cover a full suite of services:
- Institutional care in nursing homes or facilities
- Home and community based services (HCBS)
- Behavioral health services
- Durable medical equipment and therapists
- Adult day care and transportation
How to Qualify and Apply for ALTCS
To qualify for ALTCS, individuals must meet:
- Medical criteria: needing assistance with several daily tasks
- Financial criteria: income and assets below the state limits (e.g., $2,000 for individuals)
ALTCS applications involve medical reviews and income checks. Once approved, members enroll in a managed care contractor who oversees all services.
Learn more about how ALTCS helps cover the cost of home care in Arizona.
Non-Medical ALTCS Care Supports Daily Needs, Not Hospital Stays
Unlike care provided in a nursing facility, non-medical services under ALTCS focus on everyday tasks and home-based support. The program does not cover hospital stays or skilled nursing care. Instead, it offers reliable, long-term help with personal care, home health routines, and safety monitoring—giving families peace of mind.
How ALTCS Services Are Delivered
After approval for Arizona Long Term Care Services, members are assigned to a program contractor like Banner University Family Care, Mercy Care, or UnitedHealthcare. These health plans coordinate both medical and non-medical services based on individual needs.
The care plan is designed to support home care and avoid placement in a nursing home, helping individuals remain safe at home. Most services are scheduled weekly and adjusted as care needs change, reducing the financial strain on families.
Key Benefits of ALTCS for Arizona Residents
Understanding what ALTCS covers for non-medical home care in Arizona helps families make informed decisions. Key benefits include:
- Home care support that helps people age in place
- Lower cost than nursing home care
- Services available for people with physical or developmental disabilities
- Choice of assisted living or in-home support
- No need to rely only on family members for daily help
Families who qualify also receive guidance from case managers, helping them navigate all aspects of health services, caregiver selection, and financial support.
FAQs About ALTCS and Non-Medical Home Care
Does insurance pay for non-medical home care?
Standard health insurance and Medicare usually do not pay for non-medical services. However, ALTCS under AHCCCS can cover these services for eligible individuals, including help with daily activities.
What is the difference between ALTCS and AHCCCS?
AHCCCS is Arizona’s Medicaid program, and ALTCS is a division of AHCCCS that provides long-term care for those who need it. While AHCCCS covers general health services, ALTCS focuses on ongoing support, including home care, assisted living, and nursing facilities.
Does AHCCCS provide in-home care?
Yes, through the ALTCS program, AHCCCS provides in-home care for qualified individuals. This includes both medical and non-medical support based on the care plan created by the program contractor.
Get Help Locally with ALTCS
If you’re in Peoria or nearby Arizona communities, Home Care Powered by AUAF helps families navigate the ALTCS application process, review ALTCS eligibility, and set up non-medical home care services. Our Direct Care Workers deliver the daily support your loved one needs, without moving out of their familiar environment.
We also provide caregiver training to ensure that ALTCS-approved services meet state standards.
📍 9163 W Union Hills Dr Suite #114, Peoria, AZ 85382
📞 (623) 292-5563
