Trying to understand long-term care benefits can feel overwhelming—especially when you are already focused on keeping a loved one safe, healthy, and supported at home. Many families hear the term Community HealthChoices and are unsure what it means, who qualifies, or how it can help.

At Traditional Home Care, we believe families deserve clear answers and compassionate guidance. Community HealthChoices, or CHC, is designed to help eligible Pennsylvanians receive the care and support they need while living in their homes and communities whenever possible.

What Is Community HealthChoices?

Community HealthChoices is Pennsylvania’s managed care program for adults who are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid, as well as certain individuals with physical disabilities who need long-term services and supports.

The goal of CHC is to help more people receive care in the community instead of in institutional settings, giving them greater independence, more time with family, and a better overall quality of life.

Who Qualifies for CHC?

You may be automatically enrolled in Community HealthChoices if you are age 21 or older and meet one of the following requirements:

• You receive both Medicare and Medicaid
• You receive long-term services and supports through the Attendant Care, Independence, COMMCARE, or Aging waivers
• You receive long-term services and supports through the OBRA waiver and clinically qualify for nursing facility level of care
• You live in a nursing home and Medicaid pays for your care

Who Does Not Qualify?

Some individuals are not eligible for CHC. This may include:

• Individuals in the OBRA waiver who do not clinically qualify for nursing facility level of care
• Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities who receive services through the Office of Developmental Programs
• Individuals living in a state-operated nursing facility, including state veterans’ homes

What Does CHC Cover?

CHC combines many important healthcare services into one plan. It includes the same physical health benefits covered under the Medicaid Adult Benefit Package, along with prescription drug coverage.

If you qualify for long-term services and supports, those services are also coordinated through your CHC health plan. In addition, all CHC plans include care coordination to help manage health services and support your overall care needs.

What Happens After Enrollment?

After enrolling in CHC, you will choose a health plan and a primary care practitioner, also called a PCP. Your health plan works with a network of doctors, hospitals, clinics, and other healthcare providers to help meet your needs.

Your PCP becomes an important part of your care team, helping oversee your health and coordinate services. If you already have both Medicare and Medicaid and are enrolled in a Medicare Advantage plan, you may not need to change your Medicare PCP.

What About the LIFE Program?

Some individuals may qualify for the Living Independence for the Elderly program, known as LIFE. If you are already enrolled in LIFE, you can remain in that program unless you request a change.

If you are enrolled in CHC and want to explore LIFE instead, you may qualify if you:

• Are age 55 or older
• Meet the level of care needs for a skilled nursing facility or special rehabilitation facility
• Meet local financial requirements or can pay privately
• Live in an area served by a LIFE provider
• Can be safely served in the community, as determined by a LIFE provider

Why CHC Matters for Families

Programs like Community HealthChoices are designed to make care more coordinated and more accessible, helping individuals remain at home and connected to the people and places they love. For families, that can mean greater peace of mind, more support, and a better path forward.

But understanding eligibility, benefits, and next steps can still feel complicated. That is why having a trusted care partner matters.

Guidance You Can Trust

At Traditional Home Care, we help families navigate care options with clarity and compassion. If you have questions about Community HealthChoices, long-term support, or home care services, our team is here to help you understand your options and move forward with confidence.

The right support can make all the difference—and we are honored to help families find the care they need to live safely and comfortably at home.