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Chapter 7: Critical Medical Needs Program
Background The purpose of the Critical Medical Needs Program is to reduce the barriers to the energy assistance application process for critical medically vulnerable individuals and their households in obtaining State and federal financial assistance for their electric, gas, or other energy source bills; Make referrals, as necessary, to other agencies and organizations when additional resources are necessary for the continuation or restoration of energy service; and Make referrals to the Department of Housing and Community Development for energy efficiency programs, and heating and cooling system repair or replacement programs. The program provides an expedited process for critically ill, medically vulnerable individuals to apply for energy assistance with the help of a trained navigator. CMNP ensures that eligible applicants are automatically considered for certain arrearage forgiveness waivers and reduces barriers by offering personalized application assistance through navigators. CMNP Navigators Navigators serve as trusted advocates who guide critically ill customers through the Energy Assistance application process. ● Navigators typically work within hospitals, medical facilities, cancer centers, and nonprofit agencies that serve medically vulnerable individuals.
● They assist clients in collecting necessary documentation, completing applications, and obtaining Physician Certification (PC) forms.
● Navigators provide information about all available OHEP programs and should use the OHEP brochure and application as key resources.
● Before submitting an application to the Local Administering Agency (LAA), navigators must ensure that all required documents are complete and attached, following the application’s cover sheet checklist.
Updated May 2025