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MD Attendant Care Program

Published on
July 18, 2024
Last updated
July 18, 2024
Written by
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Katie Wilkinson
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This program provides financial reimbursement assistance for attendant care services for individuals who are severely physically disabled. Participants are able to hire the person of their choosing to provide care, including family members who are 18 and older, excluding spouses.
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Caring for loved ones with severe physical disabilities can be extremely challenging and exhausting for Maryland family caregivers. The constant demands of assisting with daily tasks take a toll on one's mental and physical health. 

Fortunately, the Maryland Attendant Care Program provides a much-needed solution by offering financial support to help aging adults live independently in their communities. Your loved one can avoid being admitted to nursing facilities and instead enjoy the comforts of their own homes. Is your family eligible for this supportive program?

What is the Maryland Attendant Care Program?

The Maryland Attendant Care Program (ACP) provides reimbursement funds to help cover the costs of attendant care services for care recipients with severe physical disabilities between ages 18 and 64. Caregivers assist with activities of daily living, household chores, and transportation needs to support independent community living.

The program enables your loved ones to receive care services to support the following:

  • Allowing severely disabled individuals to receive care services at home rather than in nursing facilities.
  • Promoting independence and community living.
  • Providing financial assistance to offset the often high costs of attendant care.
  • Allowing participants to self-direct and hire their attendant care providers.

The program includes a consumer-directed model, allowing participants to self-direct their care and even hire family members as paid providers.

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Services covered under the Maryland Attendant Care Program

The Maryland Attendant Care Program assists care recipients with their daily activities and offers considerable services to aid them with personal and medical needs. 

  • Personal care assistance (bathing, dressing, eating, etc.)
  • Assistance with household chores and cleaning
  • Help with running errands and transportation
  • Support with other activities of daily living as needed

These services offer a range of care options to address unique needs, including in-home care, assisted living facilities, and hospice care. The goal is to enhance overall well-being while maintaining independence and dignity.

Eligibility for the Maryland Attendant Care Program

Applicants must meet several standards to qualify for the ACP. These criteria safeguard that only qualified individuals are granted the certification. 

Age and residency requirements

  • Be a Maryland resident
  • Be between ages 18-64 at the time of initial eligibility determination

Health and disability requirements

To qualify for certain disability benefits, a care recipient must first be certified by a physician as having a severe disability. They also require hands-on assistance with essential activities of daily living and self-care. For example, your loved one needs help with simple tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating. 

This certification and requirement are in place to confirm that disability benefits only go to those who genuinely need them and to prevent fraudulent claims. Contact your local Office of the Aging or social services with any questions or concerns.

Financial requirements

  • Have an annual total gross income below $119,999
  • Not be receiving duplicative attendant care services through another program

How do family caregivers get paid?

The ACP empowers adults with disabilities to manage their care by allowing them to hire and oversee their caregivers. This consumer-directed model is a unique approach to care. Participants have more control over their lives and the aid they receive. 

The program allows family members to be hired as caregivers, which can be financially helpful. Your loved one will maintain close ties with loved ones while getting the care they need. Caregivers hired through the program receive reimbursement funds to cover their pay, which helps care recipients stretch their caregiving budget further. 

The ACP is a fantastic resource for individuals with disabilities who want to take control of their care. It's a great example of how innovative approaches to care help people live more fulfilling lives.

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Who are you caring for?

Apply to the Maryland Attendant Care Program

Applying involves submitting documentation to verify eligibility:

  1. Register for a OneStop account online at the program's website
  2. Compile required documents (proof of income, residency, disability certification, etc.)
  3. Submit the completed application through your OneStop account
  4. Get assessed to determine your level of care needs and reimbursement amount
  5. If approved, receive funds to hire your chosen attendant care provider(s)

What documents do I need to apply for the Maryland Attendant Care Program?

  • Proof of Maryland residency
  • Income verification records
  • Physician certification confirming your disability and need for care
  • Records related to employment, education, or nursing facility status

Where do I submit the documents?

All documentation is submitted through your online account when applying for the program.

Empowering family caregivers

The Maryland Attendant Care Program is a game-changer for those watching over loved ones with severe disabilities. It offers financial assistance and flexibility, empowering participants to self-direct their care and hire family members as paid caregivers. This innovative program provides a lifeline for family caregivers, reducing immense burdens and helping loved ones live independently in the community. If you or someone you know is struggling with the demands of caring for a loved one with a severe disability, the Maryland Attendant Care Program might be the right solution for you.

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