Health Care for Health Care Workers

The Health Care for Health Care Workers (HCHCW) Initiative provides Medicaid add-on payments to participating provider agencies to fund health insurance coverage for eligible direct-care workers. This initiative is designed to support the recruitment and retention of the dedicated workforce that provides essential, person-centered care to Montanans in their homes and communities.

Authorized under Administrative Rule of Montana (ARM) 37.40.1030, these add-on payments are available to providers of direct-care workers or PDN staff who spend more than half their time providing Medicaid-covered services. These payments are generated monthly and are based on the provider agency’s percentage of Medicaid billed units, anticipated number of eligible enrolled workers, and the actual cost of insurance premiums for plans meeting the Department’s benchmark standards.

To participate and remain eligible for funding, provider agencies must submit an annual application for Department approval and maintain compliance through regular quarterly reporting.

Note: Timely submission of both annual applications and quarterly reports is essential for uninterrupted participation in the initiative.

Annual Funding Application

To be considered for the upcoming calendar year’s funding, providers must submit an online application by November 15 each year.

Submit an Online HCHCW Application

Quarterly Reporting Requirements

Active providers are required to submit the HCHCW Quarterly Report Form to maintain compliance. Reports are due by the 15th of the month following the close of each quarter: