MedicaidCoverageMedium impact
Texas Medicaid: Access respite care benefit for STAR Kids
UnitedHealthcare·TX · Pediatrics·State news
Effective date
Sep 1, 2025
We identified it
May 2, 2026
Summary
Texas Medicaid STAR Kids members can now access 8 hours of supervised respite care at in-network prescribed pediatric extended care centers (PPECC) during business hours. This benefit is limited to members with PPECC or private duty nursing services in specific Texas service areas including Harris, Jefferson, Hidalgo, and MRSA Central/Northeast regions.
Action Required
Before September 1, 2025: Billing team should verify STAR Kids member eligibility for respite care benefits by calling Customer Service at 888-887-9003. Use the Referral Directory to locate in-network PPECC providers for eligible members. Update intake processes to identify STAR Kids members in covered service areas (Harris, Jefferson, Hidalgo, MRSA Central/Northeast) who have existing PPECC or PDN services.