By Sam Collyar
In our previous issue of Pass It On, we started talking about the different avenues families can explore when it comes to being a “paid caregiver” for their child with special health care needs. We looked at the programs that support caregivers in becoming an LNA; however, not every child meets or needs that level of care. In those cases, caregivers can look at the Self-Directed Personal Assistant Service made available through the New Hampshire 1915 (J) Service program.
What is Self-Directed Personal Assistant Service (PAS) and who is it for?
PAS provides medically necessary support to individuals in their homes and communities. Some of these supports include performing range-of-motion exercises, bathing and personal hygiene, toileting, assistance with medications (as allowed by Medicaid rules), and mobility assistance. Individuals may qualify for this level of support if they have previously demonstrated a need for assistance with at least 2 Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as eating, dressing or undressing, and toileting.
- This is not an exhaustive list, just a few examples to consider when trying to decide if this program is right for your family.
Other requirements include needing at least 2 hours per day of medically necessary PAS, living in a non-institutional setting, and a complete assessment and Medicaid approval. Currently, caregivers can contact either Granite State Independent Living (GSIL) or Regency Home Health for more information about the eligibility process and to schedule an assessment for their loved one.
There are a few things to consider when deciding whether this program is right for your loved one. One thing to remember is that, unlike the parent stipend option, which we will cover in the next issue, income earned for self-directed personal assistant services is taxable because you are an employee, much like the LNA programs we previously discussed, so other services that your family may be accessing could be impacted. Individuals also need to be able to self-direct their care OR have an authorized representative who can make informed decisions about services and participate in the development of a plan of care. It’s also important to remember that PAS services are only provided to the individual who was found eligible, so tasks such as running errands and babysitting are not covered by this program. If you are unsure about the differences in this and the LNA programs, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at NH Family Voices.