It Is Music Time LLC

10/01/2026

09/29/2026

Navigating annual re-assessments can feel overwhelming in this climate of hearing about so many denials, but looking at the big picture helps put the numbers into perspective. During the annual re-assessment period (2/1/2026 – 9/11/2026), 94% (19,379) of individuals were found eligible to continue receiving services. While the vast majority remain covered, 6% (1,333) received an ineligible determination.

If you or someone you serve received an ineligibility determination, remember: you have a right to appeal. An initial determination is not the final word, and taking the right steps within the allowed timeframe can help protect ongoing access to waiver services.

At MTACF, we translate system data into actionable insights for providers, case managers, and families so everyone can advocate effectively.
Visit www.mtacf.org to learn more.

09/23/2026

Understanding the specifics of your waiver eligibility is key to accessing sustainable care. As part of our commitment to provider-informed policy advocacy, MTACF is highlighting a significant point of clarification regarding Bureau of Developmental Disabilities Services (BDS) procedures.

Currently, BDS personnel are individually reviewing every single Level of Care Determination. This meticulous approach ensures that individual needs are thoroughly considered within the system.

Data indicates that 1.8% of all determinations reviewed under this process have been denied waiver services. 387 have been annual renewals and 25 denials have come from initial LOC processes. 26% of those who have been denied are actively appealing. This level of detail matters for providers, case managers, and, most importantly, the individuals and families seeking sustainable access to essential services like waiver-funded music therapy.

Data Source: Information presented is based on the information presented by BDS in the 9/21/26 Medicaid Advisory Committee.

Visit www.mtacf.org to stay informed on policy updates affecting access to care in Indiana.

09/21/2026

💙 ABLE Account or Special Needs Trust — what’s the difference?

Both can be important tools for helping protect the financial future of a person with a disability, but they work in different ways.

Our latest fact sheet breaks down:
✅ Who can have each one
✅ Contribution limits
✅ How they may affect benefits
✅ What the money can be used for
✅ Why some families may choose to use both

Take a look and save this information for future planning!

09/04/2026

If you or someone you love has received an HCBS Level of Care denial, we know the appeal process can feel overwhelming.

You may be trying to understand what the notice means, what deadlines apply, what documentation you need, and how to prepare for a hearing — all while worrying about services and supports that matter in daily life.

To help, The Arc of Indiana has created two resources:

Detailed Guide: A more in-depth guide to help you understand the appeal process and prepare next steps.
https://bit.ly/IN_LOC-Appeal_Guide

Quick Guide: A shorter overview for families who need the key steps in one place.
https://bit.ly/IN_LOC_Appeal_Quick-Guide

These guides are for informational purposes only and are not legal advice or legal representation.

If you have questions, please call The Arc of Indiana at 317-977-2375 and ask to speak with a Family Advocate.

Also, register for our upcoming Ask the Arc webinar on Thursday, September 10th, where we will walk through the appeals process and you can ask questions: https://bit.ly/Ask_the_Arc

07/22/2026

It really does feel like everything, everywhere, all at once.

New Medicaid Waiver rules go into effect August 1. The state has announced a rate reduction for live-in caregivers who provide waiver services. FSSA has also released its implementation plan for Medicaid work requirements.

That is a lot of information. And we know it is confusing.

In this special edition of Ask The Arc, we will talk through:
• Who can be a paid caregiver under the new waiver rules
• The live-in caregiver rate reduction and what it really means
• Medicaid work requirements

We know individuals, families, caregivers, and providers have questions, so please join us for this live webinar and get your questions answered.

Register here: https://bit.ly/Ask_the_Arc

06/26/2026

The State is now asking case managers to explicitly show Integrated Supports for every single outcome listed on an individual's PCISP (Person-Centered Individualized Support Plan).

​What does this mean? 🤔

​Moving forward, a goal cannot rely solely on Paid Supports (like waiver funded hours or staffing). Instead, the State wants to see a balanced combination of paid services working hand-in-hand with non-paid, organic resources. Each goal/outcome needs to weave together a mix of:

​Paid Supports & Other Eligible Supports (Direct care, therapies, and covered waiver services)

​Technology (Smart devices, adaptive tools, and apps that build independence)

​Client Strengths (Leveraging the individual's existing skills, interests, and capabilities)

​Relationships (Natural supports from family, friends, and social networks)

​Community Resources (Utilizing local groups, parks, libraries, and public spaces)

​Why the shift? 📈

​The core philosophy here is simple: the more integrated the network of support around an outcome is, the better and more sustainable those outcomes will be. When we look beyond only paid staffing and build a holistic web of technology, community presence, and natural relationships, we create a more robust path toward true independence and community inclusion.

​👥 Providers & Families: As you head into upcoming team meetings and annual PCISP updates, expect to collaborate with your case manager on how to intentionally blend these options together for every goal.

​🔗 Stay informed on waiver updates and policy shifts at www.mtacf.org

06/12/2026

In a recent IHCP (Indiana Health Coverage Programs) Bulletin, they announced the updated requirements for providing service delivery and accounting records to consumers. Individuals and their guardians may request a copy of these records and providers have the responsibility to comply with requests within 30 calendar days.

Updates like these are available at in.gov/medicaid/providers and the Indiana Music Therapy Task Force will continue to share publicly changes that impact those receiving or providing music therapy in Indiana.

06/11/2026

One of the most common questions we continue to receive is whether the August 2026 waiver amendments are the same as Indiana's upcoming waiver reset. The answer is no. The August amendments focus on immediate structural changes, including case management transitions, caregiver caps, service definiti...