Understanding the NOW Waiver

Who Qualifies?

To be eligible for the Georgia NOW Waiver program, an individual must meet specific state criteria:

Diagnosis: Have a documented intellectual disability or a closely related developmental disability (such as cerebral palsy, epilepsy, or autism) that occurred before age 22.

Level of Care: Require a level of care typically provided in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with Intellectual Disabilities (ICF/IID).

Medicaid Eligibility: Meet the financial and technical eligibility requirements for Georgia Medicaid.

What Does it Cover?

The NOW Waiver provides a budget for support services focused on daily living, personal growth, and community integration. It gives families flexibility and control over how care is structured, ensuring that support matches the individual’s unique routine and preferences.

Services First Choice Provides Under NOW

We partner with individuals, families, and support coordinators to design a care plan that promotes independence. Our highly trained team provides:

• Personal Care Services: Assistance with essential daily activities (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, grooming, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.
• Community Living Supports (CLS): Helping individuals learn and retain skills related to living in the community, including household management, socialization, and monetary skills.
• Respite Care: Vital temporary relief for family caregivers, ensuring your loved one receives consistent, professional care while you take a necessary break.
• In-Home Skilled Nursing: Specialized medical care provided by Registered Nurses (RNs) or Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) for individuals with complex clinical needs.

Our Service Area

First Choice Home Care proudly serves individuals and families across the Metro Atlanta area. Our approved county service footprint includes: Gwinnett County, DeKalb County, Fulton County, Cobb County, Henry County

(If you are located in a neighboring county, please contact our office directly to verify provider availability in your specific area.)

The Referral Process for Support Coordinators

We value our partnerships with Support Coordinators and case managers. We make the intake process direct and seamless to ensure individuals get the care they need without unnecessary delays.

Step 1. Submit Referral Information:
Use our secure online portal to submit the individual’s basic information, current ISP (Individualized Service Plan), and allocated waiver hours.

Step 2.Clinical Assessment & Verification:
Our nursing supervisors review the paperwork and coordinate a brief home intake assessment to match the individual with the right care team.

Step 3.Care Plan Implementation:
We finalize the schedule, introduce our matched caregivers, and officially initiate services under the approved NOW authorization.

Ready to Get Started?

Whether you are a family member looking for a trusted provider or a Support Coordinator ready to transition an individual to our care, we are here to help.