Texas HCS Program: What You Need to Know

The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) administers the Texas Home and Community-Based Services (HCS) program. The HCS program provides services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in their own homes or in community settings. This article will provide an overview of the Texas HCS Program, including who is eligible for services, what services are available, how to apply for services, and more.

What is the Texas HCS Program?
The Texas HCS program is a Medicaid waiver program that provides services to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The goal of the program is to help participants live as independently as possible in their homes or in community settings. HCS provides a wide range of services, including:

• Residential services


• Group home


• Host home/ companion care


• Respite services


• Day habilitation


• Employment services


• Nursing services


• Dental services


• Behavioral support


• Supported home living (transportation)


• Social work


• Occupational therapy


• Physical therapy


• Speech therapy


• Dietary services


• Audiology services


• Cognitive rehabilitation services (services for people with brain injury)


• Accessible minor home modifications


• Adaptive aids


• Transition assistance services

Texas HCS Program Eligibility
According to HHSC, HCS may be available to any Texas resident not living in an institutional setting who: 

1. Has an IQ of 69 or below or has an approved related condition with an IQ of 75 or below. 


2. Has mild to severe deficits in adaptive behavior. 


3. Is eligible for Medicaid benefits. 


4. Is not enrolled in any other Medicaid waiver program.

The Texas HCS program is a much-needed resource for people with IDD in Texas. However, the program is underfunded and has a very long waiting list. If you have a loved one with IDD, it is important to get their name on the interest list as soon as possible and to familiarize yourself with the program and its budget so that you can advocate for more funding. Familiarize yourself with the program and the services it offers so that you can be prepared when your loved one finally gets a slot in the program.

About Above and Beyond Caring
Above and Beyond Caring is a Texas HCS provider that has provided services to people with IDD for over 15 years in the Brazoria and Galveston County areas. We are passionate about the Texas HCS program and its ability to provide much-needed services and support to people with IDD. Our goal is to provide high quality, individualized services that meet the unique needs of each person we serve. If you have a loved one with IDD who is on the Texas HCS program interest list, or if you are interested in learning more about our services, please contact us today at (979) 202-0055. We would be happy to answer any of your questions.