LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — The Arkansas Department of Human Services has launched an educational campaign to make the public aware of the availability of home and community-based services (HCBS) for Medicaid recipients in the state.

The campaign has a website and provides more information about specific HCBS programs, the services available, their benefits, their achievements, and how to apply.

The website has fact sheets, flyers and other materials about the services that can be read and shared. Melissa Weatherton, DHS director of Medicaid specialization, said the programs are critical for Arkansas residents.

“These programs provide important services that help Arkansans across our state live full and meaningful lives in their communities,” Weatherton said. “This new website provides easy-to-understand overviews of how each program works and who can use it. The campaign aims to equip stakeholders, including beneficiaries and their families, providers and internal DHS staff, with basic information about Medicaid and HCBS.”

HCBS are important for Medicaid beneficiaries in all special populations (persons with intellectual, developmental, and physical disabilities, with aging disabilities, and mental health issues) so that they can receive services at home or in the community rather than in long-term care facilities.

These services enable individuals to be more independent in their community.