Policy                                                                           Issuance Number: MS 04-08

Medical Services Policy Manual                           Issuance Date: August 1, 2004

From: Joni Jones, Director                                       Expiration Date: Until Superseded

Subj: Adding Spousal Resources Provisions to ElderChoices

Sections to be Deleted                          Sections to be Added                                     Dated

MS 26100-26115 #7                                 MS 26100 - 26115#7                                    08-01-04

MS 26135-26155                                      MS 26135-26155                                           08-01-04

Summary of Changes

ElderChoices policy has been revised to allow the same spousal resources provisions currently provided to nursing home clients and spouses as outlined at MS 3337.  This change is effective August 1, 2004.  When doing a spousal resource assessment, counties will use the total amount of resources held by the couple at the time of application for ElderChoices.

Please note that the division of spousal resources applies only to ElderChoices.  AAPD individuals are not eligible for the spousal resources provisions. 

The spousal rules for income apply to neither ElderChoices nor AAPD Waiver as these individuals make no contribution toward the cost of care.

Inquiries to: Jack Tiner, 501-682-8259

Diana Teal, 501-682-1562

Carmen Banks, 501-682-8258

Carla Droughn, 501-682-8254