Just over half a century ago, American families had few options when it came to covering the costs of medical services. Some were able to afford the expensive health insurance offered by a handful of providers, but the rest either paid for care out of their own pockets or simply didn’t receive the medical attention they needed at all. In 1954, though, steps were taken to help mitigate the financial, physical and emotional costs for those falling into the latter categories. At that point, President Lyndon B. Johnson signed into law the Medicare and Medicaid program.

What is Medicaid?

By definition, Medicaid is a program geared toward low-income families and people with extensive medical needs. It covers the costs of healthcare for children, adults with certain health issues and the elderly who either can’t afford health insurance or are underinsured. This program also provides at-home care for those who need it. Though certain income and other eligibility requirements come into play, Medicaid is available to a number of families who meet its prerequisites.

New Developments

Until fairly recently, those in need of at-home care were limited in their choice of providers. Medicaid assigned specific clinics or agencies to deliver its recipients’ personal care assistants. Those organizations were in charge of appointing home care provider to patients, training them and scheduling their time with patients. Though Medicaid continues to offer this service for those interested, the program has branched out to give recipients a bit more freedom in this regard as well.

Alternative Home Care Options

Just a few years ago, Medicaid introduced cdpap. The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program allows Medicaid recipients to choose their own at-home caregivers. They may appoint friends, certain family members and other individuals as their designated caregivers. Medicaid patients who select their own caregivers are also in charge of training these individuals and scheduling care. These at-home care providers are able to help with bathing, meal preparation, administering medication and other needs.

Certain restrictions apply regarding the people who are potentially eligible to be personal caregivers. Spouses aren’t allowed to be caregivers, and in some cases, parents of children with special needs are ineligible. Anyone in charge of the patient’s finances and other affairs isn’t permitted to be a caregiver, either. Despite the limitations, this program gives Medicaid recipients greater freedom to be active participants in their own care.