How do you hire a family member or friend?

Today, more than one million Medicaid beneficiaries choose self-directed in-home and communitybased services.

If you or a loved one have a trusted friend or family member who is qualified to provide in-home or community-based care, start by contacting the local health department or Medicaid office to determine Medicaid eligibility and assess the services needed. Once an assessment is completed, you or your loved one can inquire about self-directing services and proceed with hiring.

When self-directing services, the person receiving the services becomes a caregiver’s direct employer. Enlisting a financial intermediary can help you ensure all administrative tasks, payroll and taxes are handled seamlessly. GT Independence, for instance, helps approximately 25,000 individuals in 11 states to manage in-home and community-based services through easy-to-use, accessible, online and mobile services that are 100% HIPAA compliant, allowing caregivers to focus on what really matters: the individual.

For valuable resources about integrating self-directed options into a personal care plan, visit Collaboration to Promote SelfDetermination (CPSD) or National Gateway to SelfDetermination (NGSD).

Understanding your caregiver options can provide the freedom for seniors to live at home on their own terms.