The CDPAP Program, or Consumer Directed Personal Assistant Program, is a Medicaid program in the state of New York. It is designed to give people more control over who provides their home care and how it is provided. If your loved one is in need of care in their own home, learn more about this program and whether you are eligible to serve as the caregiver.

A Guide to Family Member Care Under the CDPAP Program

Who Can Provide Care?

One of the major benefits of the program is that family members can serve as personal assistants to the consumer and be paid for their services. The only exception is that spouses, when legally married through the state of New York, cannot serve as the assistant. Other close family members, such as children, are eligible to provide care.

If someone wants to become a personal assistant, they must meet some basic requirements. They must have a stable medical condition themselves, which is proven with a physical by their own family doctor.

They should either be self-directing or have a designated representative that can direct the care to the program’s requirements. They must assist with daily living activities or skilled care. They must complete an IRS I-9 form to show that they are able to work in the United States, and register with a Medicaid agency that handles the program.

How to Can Someone Begin the Care Process?

The consumer must first be eligible for New York State Medicaid. Requirements include being a U.S. citizen and a resident of New York, in need of healthcare assistance, and have a financial situation that is low income or very low income.

A doctor must send a Physician’s Order for Services to the local social services district, which will then conduct an assessment. The assessor will determine whether the consumer can participate in the program, and will outline the frequency, amount, and duration of services.

The caregiver does not need to quit their normal job. Under the program, they can meet the weekly hour requirement based around their own schedule and the needs of their loved one.

Safe Haven Home Care can help you get started with and navigate the complexities of the CDPAP program. This home health care provider serves families throughout New York City, including Queens, Manhattan, Bronx, Staten Island, and Brooklyn. Learn more about their services on their website and get started by calling (718) 968-6970.