Many states have specialized programs that allow seniors to select a health care team that meets their needs. In New York, this senior benefit is called the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program or CDPAP. Here is some insight into the policy to help you understand how to make CDPAP work for you.

A Guide to New York’s CDPAP

The Beginning

The official name CDPAP was created in 1995, but the program began in 1977. At this time, some people formed an organization called Concepts of Independence for the Disabled (CID), which advocated for individuals with disabilities to be able to select who cares for them at home, rather than placing people with severe disabilities in institutions. 

In 1992, the New York State Department of Health created the Patient Managed Home Care Program to assess how to change the state-led health care programming to be more affordable while fostering a positive impact. The program was renamed in 1995 to CDPAP, which is how most Medicaid recipients know the program now.

The CDPAP Today

After earning grant funding to grow the program throughout the 2000s, this initiative now includes access to peer counselors to help customers assess how their eligibility and needs fit with these benefits. 

As of 2012, CDPAP included Managed Care and Managed Long-Term Care Medicaid benefits. Individuals across New York State can take advantage of controlling their health care since every county offers this program. Local agencies are mandated to offer information to qualified individuals to empower them to seek personalized care options.

To be eligible for the program’s benefits today, you must have Medicaid health care, need home care services, and self-direct or designate a representative who can choose your care. To apply for this benefit, contact a nurse practitioner who will perform an assessment.

If you’re officially eligible for CDPAP, fill out the appropriate consumer forms and choose a caregiver. There are many factors involved in selecting who can provide CDPAP-sponsored care, but some areas include paying loved ones for home care, so keep that in mind while making this decision.

If you’re interested in home health care services, contact Safe Haven Home Care in Brooklyn, NY. The agency has over 25 years of industry experience and hires diverse staff who speak varied languages and use their passion to improve people's lives. The caretakers help residents in Queens, Manhattan, the Bronx, and Staten Island. Call (718) 968-6970 or visit the website for information on their services, including respiratory and occupational therapy, live-in companions, certified home health aides, and medical social workers.