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A.R.S. § 36-3301

Key Definitions for Arizona's AHCCCS Long-Term Care Program

Verified April 4, 2026 • 57th Legislature, 1st Regular Session

This statute defines two key terms used throughout Arizona's long-term care program chapter. 'Administration' refers to the Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) administration. 'Department' refers to the Department of Economic Security. These definitions apply whenever the terms appear in this chapter.

Title 36, LIVING WILLS AND HEALTH CARE DIRECTIVES

azleg.gov

Why These Definitions Matter

Definitions statutes may seem routine, but they set the foundation for everything that follows in a chapter. When Arizona's long-term care program statutes reference "the administration" or "the department," these two definitions tell you exactly which agencies are involved.

In this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: 1. "Administration" means the Arizona health care cost containment system administration. 2. "Department" means the department of economic security.

A.R.S. § 36-3301

AHCCCS is Arizona's Medicaid program. It provides healthcare coverage to eligible low-income individuals and families, including long-term care services through the Arizona Long Term Care System (ALTCS). The Department of Economic Security (DES) plays a role in eligibility determinations and related social services.

How This Connects to Estate Planning

Understanding which agencies administer long-term care benefits is relevant for families navigating ALTCS eligibility. ALTCS has strict asset and income limits that can significantly affect estate planning decisions. Knowing that "the administration" means AHCCCS helps you follow the rules in subsequent statutes about waiver programs, eligibility requirements, and covered services.

If you or a family member may need long-term care in the future, understanding the administrative structure behind Arizona's programs is a practical first step. The eligibility rules, asset limits, and lookback periods all flow from the framework these definitions support.

In this chapter, unless the context otherwise requires: 1. "Administration" means the Arizona health care cost containment system administration. 2. "Department" means the department of economic security.
View on azleg.gov

This page provides general legal information about Arizona statutes and is not legal advice. For guidance on how this law applies to your situation, speak with a qualified attorney.

Related Questions

What is ALTCS and how does it help with long-term care costs in Arizona?

ALTCS is Arizona's Medicaid program for long-term care. It covers nursing facilities, assisted living, and home care for residents who meet medical and financial eligibility requirements, including a $2,000 individual asset limit and a five-year lookback period.

What happens financially when a spouse goes to a nursing home in Arizona?

Arizona nursing home costs run $7,000 to $12,000 per month. The healthy spouse can keep up to $154,140 in assets and $3,853.50 per month in income under ALTCS rules, but assets above those limits must be spent down before benefits begin.

Related Statutes

§ 36-3302When Arizona's AHCCCS Needs Legislative Approval for Medicaid Waivers
§ 36-3201Health Care Directive Definitions in Arizona
§ 36-3202How to Revoke a Health Care Directive in Arizona
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