The basic principles regarding base periods as referenced in 7330 for independent living also apply to HCBS. That is, the base period is the length of time used in determining financial eligibility. In addition, the date of receipt of a signed application is the application date for determining eligibility and the month of application also establishes the first month of the current base. For further information, see 7330.
For persons receiving Medicaid based on the receipt of cash benefits (SSI or State Supplemental payments) or eligible under the protected medical groups of 2680 or Caretaker Medical, medical eligibility continues using one month base periods. For other persons a one month eligibility base shall be used beginning with the HCBS effective date (per 8200.2). When a recipient begins HCBS within an already established base period, the existing base shall be shortened to end the month prior to the month HCBS is effective. One month bases are established beginning with the month HCBS is effective.
An applicant may request a determination of medical eligibility for a 3 month period prior to the month of application. However, HCBS coverage cannot be authorized for any prior medical months at application.
NOTE: See 8200.4 and 9350 regarding gap months during the review reconsideration period as eligibility may be determined and HCBS reinstated if otherwise eligible.
Eligibility for months prior to the month the person chooses or begins receiving HCBS services shall be determined based on the individual's living arrangement in those months (i.e., either independent living or long term institutional care). See the prior medical rules of 7330 (2) for independent living or 8132 for long term care.