Community First Choice Program (CFC) and Community Options Waiver Program (CO)
These programs work hand-in-hand to provide community services and support. They empower older adults and people with disabilities to live in the community. The programs are administered by the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (DHMH).
The programs provide assistance with activities of daily living to Medicaid recipients who have a chronic illness, medical condition or disability. Services are provided in the eligible individual’s home or community residence (waiver participants may receive services in an assisted living facility). Other services in each program vary.
To apply, please contact the DHMH at 410-767-1739. Qualified applicants must meet both the Medicaid Program’s financial and medical requirements. An assessment completed by your Local Health Department determines medical eligibility. Financial eligibility is determined by either the local Department of Social Services or by the DHMH.
Once determined eligible, each participant, or his or her representative, will choose an approved Supports Planning Agency to guide them through developing a plan for services.
The Community First Choice Program (CFC)
This program provides home and community based services to individuals with disabilities or chronic medical conditions.
Services include:
– Consumer training
– Environmental assessments
– Fiscal intermediary services
– Home delivered meals
– Items that substitute for human assistance
– Nurse monitoring of attendants
– Personal assistance
– Personal emergency response system
– Supports planning services
– Transition services
– All other standard Medicaid services
Personal assistance services provided in the program include assistance, or items that substitute for assistance, with the following activities of daily living:
– Bathing
– Toileting
– Mobility, including transferring from place to place
– Eating
– Dressing
Individuals who need help with activities of daily living may also receive help with:
– Household services related to medical needs
– Escort services to a medical appointment
– Personal hygiene and grooming
CFC Participants are also eligible to receive other Medicaid services which may include:
– Physician and hospital care
– Pharmacy
– Home health
– Laboratory services
– Mental health services
– Disposable medical supplies
– Durable medical equipment
Technical Eligibility: Applicant must be a legal Maryland resident. There is no age limitation.
Financial Eligibility: Individuals must qualify for Medicaid in the community.
Medical Eligibility: Individuals must need the level of care required to qualify for nursing facility services.
For more information contact Maryland Access Point at 1-844-627-5465. Or go online to