Home-Enabling Supports NY

For self-advocates

HES in plain language

HES is a Medicaid benefit that helps you live in your own home. This page explains it in plain words.

You don't need to know every acronym to ask for HES. Here's the short version.

What you'll find here

  • What HES is and what it can pay for.
  • Phrases you can use to ask for it.
  • Your rights when the technology touches your privacy.
  • What to do if you live in a group home and want to move out.

What to say

Phrases you can use to ask for HES

You don't need to memorize anything. These are starting points.

  • "I want to live more independently. Can we add Home-Enabling Supports to my plan?"

  • "I want technology that helps me stay safe at home without someone watching me all the time."

  • "I want to move out of [a group home / my parents' house]. Can we use HES to help me set up the new place?"

Say these to your Care Manager, your parent, your guardian, or your day program staff — anyone who's on your team. They will know who to talk to next.

Your rights

Your rights with this technology

Some HES technology can see, hear, or track you. You have rights about all of it.

  • No cameras that silently watch you in your bedroom or bathroom — ever. A video call you start yourself is different.
  • In your bedroom or bathroom, a microphone can only be one you turn on yourself, or one that comes on in an emergency. Never one that listens all the time.
  • GPS tracking needs your written consent. You can take that consent back at any time.
  • If you live with other people, their privacy counts too. They have to agree as well.

Read more about privacy and consent.

Resources

The 3 things HES funds

Examples of what HES has paid for in real plans.

Frequently asked

Who decides if I can get HES?
OPWDD does, after your Care Manager submits a request.
What if I live in a group home (an IRA)?
You can use HES once you have moved out of the group home. Talk to your Care Manager early — they, your provider, and an HES vendor can plan ahead so it is ready when you move. Some technology can also help make the move itself easier before HES starts — ask your provider or a vendor. Read more about which homes count.
Can I say no to something I do not want?
Yes. Anything that touches your privacy — a camera, a microphone, GPS — needs your written consent first. You can take that consent back at any time.

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