How to apply for PASSPORT Medicaid Waiver — Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today in Ohio

Who it's for

PASSPORT is Ohio's marquee Medicaid HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services) Waiver for age 60+ at nursing-home level of care. One of the most-studied Medicaid HCBS waivers in the US — Ohio's PASSPORT pioneered the model of single-entry case management through Area Agencies on Aging. Services include personal care, home-delivered meals, adult day services, transportation, home modifications, emergency response systems, and respite. Must qualify for Medicaid under the waiver rules (income up to about $2,982/mo, 300% of the SSI rate, with a $2,000 resource limit) PLUS need nursing-home level of care. Apply through the local AAA (Area Agency on Aging) — see aging.ohio.gov for the AAA locator.

What you'll need

• Proof of age 60+
• Proof of Ohio residency
• Proof of all household income and resources
• Nursing-home level-of-care assessment (completed by AAA)
• Medicare card if enrolled

Where to apply

What to say when you call

"Hello, I'm calling to ask about PASSPORT Medicaid Waiver — Pre-Admission Screening System Providing Options and Resources Today. I'd like to know whether I may qualify, what documents I need, and whether I can apply online, by mail, by phone, or in person. I understand I may need proof of age 60+, proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and resources — is anything else required? What is the best next step?"

Tip: have a pen ready, ask for the person's name, and write down any case or reference number they give you.

Step by step

1. Gather proof of age, proof of Ohio residency, proof of all household income and resources, and your Medicare card if you are enrolled in Medicare.
2. Apply for PASSPORT online or by phone at 1-866-243-5678.
3. Apply through your local Area Agency on Aging, since PASSPORT is handled through Ohio’s 12 regional Area Agencies on Aging.
4. Complete the nursing-home level-of-care assessment with the Area Agency on Aging.
5. Provide any requested information so the agency can review whether you qualify for Medicaid under the waiver rules and whether you need nursing-home level of care.

What to expect: After you apply, the Area Agency on Aging reviews your information and completes your level-of-care assessment. PASSPORT is for people who qualify for Medicaid under the waiver rules and need nursing-home level of care, so both parts must be approved. If you are approved, services may include personal care, meals, adult day services, transportation, home modifications, emergency response systems, and respite. Renewal is annual.

Renewals

annual