If you or a loved one rely on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York, you may have heard rumors that the program is closing.
If you or a loved one rely on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York, you may have heard rumors that the program is closing. However, the truth is a bit more complicated than that.
CDPAP is a Medicaid program that allows individuals who need home care services to hire their own personal assistants, including family members and friends. This program has been a lifeline for many New Yorkers who need assistance with daily activities due to a disability or chronic illness.
The rumors of CDPAP closing began circulating in May 2021, when the New York State Department of Health (DOH) announced that they were making changes to the program. These changes included restructuring the fiscal intermediaries (FIs) that manage the program, as well as implementing new eligibility requirements for personal assistants.
While these changes are significant, they do not mean that CDPAP is closing. In fact, the DOH has stated that they are committed to ensuring that CDPAP remains a viable option for New Yorkers who need it.
The changes to CDPAP are aimed at improving the program and making it more sustainable in the long-term. Here is what you need to know:
While the changes to CDPAP are aimed at improving the program and ensuring that consumers receive quality care, they may have an impact on personal assistants and their employment status.
Under the new eligibility requirements, personal assistants will need to undergo background checks and training before they can provide care to consumers. While this is meant to ensure that only qualified individuals are providing care, it may also make it more difficult for some personal assistants to continue working in the program.
Additionally, the restructuring of fiscal intermediaries (FIs) could lead to changes in how personal assistants are paid or managed. Some FIs may choose to reduce their administrative costs by limiting the number of personal assistants they work with or reducing reimbursement rates for their services.
Overall, while these changes are intended to improve CDPAP and ensure its long-term sustainability, they may have unintended consequences for personal assistants. It is important for stakeholders to continue working together to find solutions that benefit both consumers and personal assistants alike.
With the implementation of new eligibility requirements for personal assistants, it may be a bit more challenging for consumers to find qualified individuals to provide care. However, there are still options available.
One option is to work with a home care agency that specializes in CDPAP. These agencies have experience working with the program and can help connect consumers with qualified personal assistants who meet the new eligibility requirements.
Another option is to seek out training programs for personal assistants. These programs can provide individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to become qualified for the program.
Consumers can also reach out to community organizations and advocacy groups for recommendations on finding qualified personal assistants. These groups may have resources or connections that can be helpful in finding suitable candidates.
It's important for consumers to take their time when selecting a personal assistant and ensure that they meet all of the necessary eligibility requirements. This will help ensure that they receive quality care and that the program remains sustainable in the long-term.
The changes to CDPAP announced by the New York State Department of Health are significant and will take time to implement. The DOH has stated that they are working closely with stakeholders to ensure a smooth transition to the new system.
According to the DOH, the timeline for implementing these changes is as follows:
It's important for consumers and personal assistants to be aware of these timelines and ensure that they are meeting all of the necessary requirements. Failure to do so could result in disruptions to their services or employment status.
One concern that some consumers may have about the changes to CDPAP is whether there will be any cost changes or impacts on their Medicaid coverage. The good news is that, according to the New York State Department of Health, there are no anticipated changes to the cost structure or Medicaid coverage for consumers enrolled in CDPAP.
Consumers who are currently enrolled in CDPAP will continue to receive the same level of services and support. Additionally, they will not see any changes to their Medicaid coverage as a result of the program's restructuring.
It's important for consumers to continue working with their fiscal intermediaries (FIs) and personal assistants as they normally would. Any changes to costs or coverage would be communicated directly by the DOH or through official channels.
Overall, while there may be some uncertainty and concern surrounding the changes to CDPAP, it's important for consumers to stay informed and work closely with their FIs and personal assistants. By doing so, they can ensure that they continue receiving quality care and support under the program.
Independent Living Centers (ILCs) are community-based organizations that provide support and advocacy for individuals with disabilities. These centers can play a critical role in helping consumers navigate the changes to CDPAP.
ILCs can provide a variety of services to consumers, including information and referral, peer counseling, and skills training. They can also assist with navigating the eligibility requirements for personal assistants and help connect consumers with qualified candidates.
Additionally, ILCs can provide advocacy and support for personal assistants who may be impacted by the changes to CDPAP. This includes assistance with understanding new training requirements or finding new employment opportunities if their current FI is unable to continue working with them.
Consumers who are enrolled in CDPAP or considering enrolling should reach out to their local ILC for assistance. These centers have a wealth of knowledge and experience working with individuals with disabilities and can help ensure that consumers receive the support they need under the program.
If you have questions about the changes to CDPAP or how they may affect you, there are several resources available:
While the changes to CDPAP may be concerning for some, it is important to remember that the program is not closing. The DOH is committed to ensuring that New Yorkers who need home care services are able to access them through CDPAP. By implementing changes to the program, they are working to make it more sustainable and effective in the long-term. If you have any questions or concerns about CDPAP, be sure to reach out to the resources available to you.
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