Medicaid waivers for autism in Tennessee
Tennesseans with an intellectual or developmental disability that began before age 22, who have TennCare or are eligible for it.
- Main program
- Employment and Community First (ECF) CHOICES
- Typical wait
- Around 1,750 waiting — small by national standards
- Administered by
- TennCare, delivered through contracted Managed Care Organizations, with intake support from DIDD regional offices
- Age rules
- The disability must have started before age 22.
How to get on the list
Complete the ECF CHOICES self-referral form online, or call the Managed Care Organization listed on your TennCare card and say you need help submitting a self-referral. DIDD regional intake offices can also assist: West (866) 372-5709, Middle (800) 654-4839, East (888) 531-9876.
Open the official Tennessee page →Does autism qualify?
Autism qualifies as a developmental disability. Onset must be before age 22, and TennCare eligibility is required.
How the waiting list works
Tennessee compares well nationally: roughly 1,750 people were reported waiting, against 22,000 in Florida and over 130,000 on Texas's largest list. ECF CHOICES was designed around employment and community participation rather than institutional alternatives, and self-referral means you do not need a professional to open the door for you.
- People waiting~1,754 statewide
What it can pay for
- Employment supports and job coaching
- Community integration
- Respite
- Personal assistance
- Family caregiver supports
Tennesseeproviders & resources →
Local help you can access now, while you wait.
Waivers explained →
What to do while you're on the list, and what to ask.
Sources · last checked August 2026
- TennCare — Employment and Community First CHOICES
- TN Disability and Aging — ECF CHOICES
- Family Voices of Tennessee — ECF CHOICES
Waiting lists and eligibility rules change. Always confirm current details with the agency before making decisions. If something here is out of date, tell us.