The Multipurpose Senior Services Program (MSSP) is a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver that was created by the California Department of Health Care Services (DHCS) to provide an alternative to nursing facility care or hospitalization for individuals who meet specific criteria. In this blog post, we will explain the MSSP, how it works, and how it can benefit you and your caregivers.
The MSSP is a Medicaid waiver program established in 1983 and renewed in 2023 for a five-year period. The MSSP aims to provide social and healthcare management services to help people 65 or older stay in their homes and communities. The goal is to prevent or delay institutionalization through ongoing care coordination. The annual cost of care management and other services must be less than skilled nursing facility care.
To qualify for the MSSP, you must meet the following eligibility requirements:
The MSSP offers various services and supports tailored to your needs and preferences. These services and supports include:
One of the benefits of the MSSP is that it allows you to self-direct your personal care services and other supportive services. This means that you can choose who provides these services, including hiring a family member as a caregiver. You can also decide how much to pay your caregiver within the limits set by the program. The MSSP pays your caregiver directly through an intermediary service organization (ISO) that handles payroll, taxes, insurance, and background checks. The ISO also provides training and support to your caregiver. By self-directing your personal care and other supportive services, you can have more control over your care and reward your family members for their work.
If you want to learn more about the MSSP or other programs that can compensate your family caregivers, please fill out this form, and we will contact you soon. We are here to help you find the best options for your situation and advocate for your rights as a caregiver.
