GAPP Knowledge Center
Frequently asked questions about GAPP
Answers to the most common questions about Georgia's GAPP program, how GAPP services work, and how Core Health Group Corp. supports families through enrollment and care.
GAPP FAQ
About GAPP
What is GAPP?
GAPP stands for the Georgia Pediatric Program. It is a Georgia Medicaid program — not a waiver — that funds skilled nursing and personal care services in the home for medically complex children up to age 21. GAPP allows families to care for their child at home rather than in a long-term care facility, while Medicaid covers the cost of authorized services.
Is GAPP the same as a Medicaid waiver?
No. GAPP is a Georgia Medicaid program under the state plan, distinct from Georgia's Medicaid waiver programs (such as the NOW and COMP waivers for individuals with developmental disabilities). Do not confuse the two — they have different eligibility rules, services, and administrative structures.
Who administers GAPP?
GAPP is administered by the Georgia Department of Community Health (DCH). Prior authorizations are processed by Alliant Health Solutions, Georgia Medicaid's fee-for-service prior authorization contractor.
Does GAPP cost money for families?
Eligible children enrolled in Georgia Medicaid typically have no cost for covered GAPP services. Any cost-sharing on the Katie Beckett pathway is determined by the Katie Beckett Medicaid team. Covered services are billed directly to Georgia Medicaid by the GAPP provider.
GAPP FAQ
Eligibility
Who qualifies for GAPP?
Children must meet three criteria: (1) age under 21; (2) active Georgia Medicaid enrollment; (3) a physician-documented medical necessity for skilled nursing or personal care. All three must be met.
Can my child qualify if our income is too high for Medicaid?
Possibly — through the Katie Beckett / TEFRA pathway, which evaluates the child's Medicaid eligibility independently of household income. Many middle-income families access GAPP this way.
What conditions qualify?
Any condition creating a documented need for skilled nursing or personal care can potentially qualify. Common qualifying conditions include ventilator dependence, tracheostomy, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, feeding tube dependence, and other high-acuity diagnoses.
Is there an age minimum?
No. GAPP serves children from birth through 20 years, 11 months.
GAPP FAQ
Applying and Getting Started
How do I start the GAPP application?
Contact Core Health Group Corp. at (678) 536-6668 or submit an online inquiry. Our intake team handles all aspects of the application and authorization process at no cost to your family.
How long does the process take?
The full process from first contact to care start is typically 3–6 weeks. Once a complete authorization packet is submitted, Alliant has 7 calendar days to respond. Gathering physician documentation typically takes 1–2 weeks.
Can we apply if we don't have a GAPP provider yet?
Yes. Contact us first — we guide families through the entire process including selecting a provider (us), getting the physician documentation, and submitting the authorization.
What if our application is denied?
Families have the right to appeal. Core Health Group Corp. assists with appeals, including identifying documentation gaps and working with the physician to strengthen the clinical record.
GAPP FAQ
Services and Hours
What services does GAPP cover?
GAPP covers skilled nursing (performed by RNs and LPNs) and personal care (performed by PCAs) in the home. Coverage is based on medical necessity and prior authorization.
How are nursing hours determined?
Hours are authorized by Alliant Health Solutions based on the clinical documentation submitted by the attending physician and the GAPP provider. Factors include diagnosis severity, nursing tasks required, and family caregiver availability.
Can my child receive both skilled nursing and personal care?
Yes. Many children are authorized for a combination of skilled nursing and personal care hours, depending on their medical and ADL needs.
Does GAPP cover therapy (PT, OT, speech)?
Physical, occupational, and speech therapy are separate Medicaid benefits — not covered through GAPP. A child can receive both GAPP services and therapy through their Medicaid benefits simultaneously.
GAPP FAQ
Switching and Continuity
Can I change my GAPP provider?
Yes, at any time. Georgia Medicaid law protects your right to choose your provider. The existing authorization transfers — no reauthorization needed. Core Health Group Corp. coordinates the transition.
What happens to my child's authorization if we switch?
The authorization stays with the child, not the provider. Switching providers does not require restarting the authorization process.
What if our GAPP provider closes or stops accepting patients?
Contact Core Health Group Corp. immediately. We can accept a rapid transfer and coordinate to prevent gaps in care.
Can GAPP follow my child to school?
Yes. GAPP nursing can accompany eligible children to school during authorized hours. Core Health Group Corp. coordinates with school staff and the IEP/504 team as needed.
Free Eligibility Screening
Still have questions? We're here to help.
Core Health Group Corp. answers every question at no charge and guides families through the entire GAPP enrollment process. Reach out today for your free eligibility screening.