An Introduction to the Katie Beckett Waiver in Tennessee
The first Katie Beckett waiver was implemented in 1981 after President Ronald Reagan was inspired by the story of Katie Beckett. She was a young girl in Iowa who developed a brain infection when she was 5 months old which led to her being paralyzed and spending three years in the hospital. After the hard work of many advocates, the Katie Beckett program launched in Tennessee in November 2020 and is available for ages 1-18.
To apply for Katie Beckett, families must first go through a financial review and a medical review. The financial review will determine whether the child qualifies for Medicaid or the Katie Beckett waiver. The medical review helps determine what level of care the child needs.
When applying families need to create a profile with self-referral at TennCare Connect. Creating this online is the fastest and easiest method, however, a DIDD case manager can help you complete the self-referral. To get help, call the DIDD office in your region:
West Tennessee Regional Office: (866) 372-5709
Middle Tennessee Regional Office: (800) 654-4839
East Tennessee Regional Office: (888) 531-9876
A DIDD case manager will be in contact to set up an assessment where medical documentation will be required regarding an individual's condition or disability. Proof will be required through these documents at the time of assessment or applications can be denied or delayed.
This visual helps walk through the application process:
Children are grouped into 3 tiers. Tier 1 is for children with complex medical and behavioral needs. Tier 2 is for children who have complex needs but their needs aren’t as high as Tier 1. These children can have medical, behavioral, or functional needs. Tier 1 will enroll in Part A. Other children can enroll for Part B while waiting. Part A receives $15,000/year and is enrolled in Medicaid. Part B receives $10,000/year.
There are a limited number of slots available in both Part A and Part B. Part A is based on level of need while Part B is on a first come first served basis. An individual can remain in the program until 18 if they continue to meet all qualifications.
There is a third tier, Part C, which is for children who currently have Medicaid, but their coverage is ending due to an increase in income or resources. If a child would qualify for Part A but there is not an available slot this tier would allow them to keep their Medicaid coverage until a Part A slot opens. Individuals in Part C will NOT receive Home and Community Based Services (HCBS).
Prior to 2024 the Katie Beckett program utilized PayFlex for reimbursements. PayFlex has since rebranded to Inspira. There is still access to an Inspira debit card, online portal, mobile app.
Using their Inspira reimbursement account, families will have the flexibility to choose a variety of eligible physical items and services that would benefit their child including music therapy. Some options need a LOMN (letter of medical necessity) from a medical professional and others do not. Families also receive an Inspira debit card for their account, however it can only be used at point-of-sale (POS) machines coded as medical, dental or vision. Pharmacies may be limited to the register in the actual pharmacy only. Thus, the Inspira benefit is largely a reimbursement service.
Reimbursement takes around two weeks to be processed. Typically, reimbursements are sent out on a Friday with funds being placed in your account on Monday. Reimbursement can also be sent via a check. You will need proof of receipt for all charges you wish to receive reimbursement for.
There are a limited number of slots available in both Part A and Part B. Part A is based on level of need while Part B is on a first come first served basis. The current time you can expect to remain on the waitlist is 3-6 months.
Example Items/Services not covered
Property Taxes
Washing machine
CBD Products
Care.com monthly membership fees
Monthly reoccurring Medical Fees
Disney tickets/Out of state amusement parks, museums, etc.
Printer
Example Items/Services that are potentially covered (most require a LOMN)
Wheelchair ramp
Specialized locks for doors/windows
Respite Care
Service animal
Testing and evaluations
Speech Devices
ASL courses
Homeschooling curriculum and supplies
Non-traditional therapies are covered under the Katie Beckett waiver. This includes Music Therapy! A LOMN is needed for Music Therapy to be covered for reimbursement. Music Therapy is not covered by insurance in the state of Tennessee which makes the Katie Beckett waiver a phenomenal assistance in getting Music Therapy services.
Helpful Links:
DIDD Katie Beckett Page:
TennCare Katie Beckett Page:
Part A - https://youtu.be/0AJFjwHC-Fg
Part B - https://youtu.be/HbQ7lM8gr0U
While this is just a very brief overview, you can find more information about the Katie Beckett Program on both the DIDD and TennCare websites. Musical Bridges has many clients successfully enrolled in the program who are thriving in Music Therapy. If you have any questions about how your child can benefit from Music Therapy, please contact us below!