Disability Rights Florida Secures Major Medicaid Policy Change on Incontinence Supplies

This year, thousands of Floridians with disabilities will see important changes in their Medicaid coverage following a class action lawsuit filed by the Florida Health Justice Project (FHJP) and Disability Rights Florida (DRF). The lawsuit challenged a long-standing Medicaid rule that stopped covering incontinence supplies—such as adult diapers, pads, liners, and protective undergarments—once a recipient turned 21.

These supplies are far more than convenience items. They are essential for preventing serious medical complications like infections, skin breakdown, and painful ulcerations. Without coverage, families and individuals faced significant financial and health burdens. For years, many caregivers were surprised to learn that the critical supplies they had relied on for years for their children or loved ones would no longer be covered once the individual became an adult.

While some exceptions existed through Florida’s Home and Community-Based Services program, the waitlist includes tens of thousands of people, leaving most without access to needed supports. According to state records, about 96 Floridians on Medicaid lose coverage for these supplies every year simply because they turn 21.

After the lawsuit was filed, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) voluntarily updated its Medicaid rules to ensure incontinence supplies are covered for adults with medical need. As part of the settlement, AHCA sent approximately 120,000 notices to Medicaid recipients who were previously denied or were at risk of losing coverage.

“Incontinence supplies are a basic need for individuals with disabilities who are unable to control their bladder or bowels,” said Cherie Hall, executive director at Disability Rights Florida. “These supplies prevent serious infection and significantly enhance quality of life and independence.”

The settlement applies to all Medicaid recipients in Florida whose prescriptions for incontinence supplies have been or may be denied, helping restore dignity, health, and community participation for people across the state.