The NHT Program was developed to assist and empower consumers who want to move from a nursing facility back to a home of their choice in the community. NHT also helps the Commonwealth rebalance its long-term living systems. When given choice, an overwhelming number of people say they want to age in place in their homes rather than in institutions. Yet, in publicly funded programs, the bias has always been toward institutional care. NHT provides the opportunity for individuals and their families or caregivers to be fully informed of all long-term services and supports options, including the full range of available home and community-based services (HCBS). Through the NHT program, individuals can receive the guidance and support they need to make informed choices about their long-term services and supports. The program assists individuals in moving out of institutions and eliminates barriers in service systems so that individuals receive services and supports in settings of their choice.

For More Information…

If you would like to apply for a Home and Community Based Services Medicaid Waiver, contact the Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker (IEB) at: 1-877-550-4227. You may also begin your application for benefits online using the COMPASS website. If you need help but are not sure who to contact, there are several ways to access information and referral services: ONLINE by using the convenient online Information and Referral Tool CALL the PA Link to Aging and Disability Resource Center toll free at: 1-800-753-8827 Contact your local Link partner agency, such as the Area Agency on Aging (AAA) or Center for Independent Living (CIL) and ask to speak to an “options counselor.”

Transition Preparation…

If you or a loved one is interested in returning to the community from the nursing facility, you may initiate the nursing home transition process by either:
• Contacting nursing facility staff to initiate a Nursing Home Transition (NHT) referral
• Contacting an available NHT Coordination Agency directly.
Locate your county using the following list to identify an NHT Coordination Agency to assist you in exploring the available options to transition home. NHT Coordination Agencies (Link) If you have any difficulty or need assistance in this process, you may contact the Office of Long Term Living Division of Transition and Diversion at 1 (800) 833-5196.

Goals & Objectives of the NHT Program…

Help rebalance the long-term living system in Pennsylvania so that people have a choice of where they live and receive services.
• Enhance opportunities for individuals to move to the community by identifying individuals who wish to return to the community.
• Identify and overcome barriers that prevent transitions.
• Empower individuals so they are involved to the extent possible in planning and directing their own transition from a nursing facility back to a home of their choice in the community.
• Develop the necessary infrastructure and supports in the community.
• Expand and strengthen collaboration between aging and disability organizations to provide support and expertise to the NHT Program.
• Educate individuals and families about long-term living services.

Our Nursing Home Transition Referral Form

Click the button below to download and fill out our NHT Referral form today!