Most older Ohioans prefer to live independently in their own homes, in their communities, surrounded by family and friends, for as long as they can. But, many need some help doing so. Before Medicaid waiver programs, older adults who needed any degree of long-term care typically entered nursing homes. Ohio's PASSPORT Medicaid waiver program helps Medicaid-eligible older Ohioans get the long-term services and supports they need to stay in their homes. 

PASSPORT uses federal and state funds, through a Medicaid waiver, to pay for in-home alternatives to nursing home care for low-income, Medicaid eligible seniors. PASSPORT is a two-pronged program. The first part is a pre-admission screening during which interested consumers are screened by telephone to determine preliminary Medicaid eligibility and care needs. They are also provided information about the variety of long-term care options available.

The second part of PASSPORT is home care. Once a consumer is determined eligible a case manager works with him or her to develop a package of in-home services to be provided by local service providers. The case manager then monitors the care for quality and changes the care plan as necessary.

PASSPORT referrals are accepted from anyone: hospitals, family members, friends, physicians, social service agencies, clergy, or anyone else that may be genuinely concerned about the well being of an older adult. If you would like to refer someone now, call a Certified Information and Referral Specialist at 1-800-945- 4250.