There is an amazing option which allows family members to get paid to care for their loved ones. It’s called the CDPAP program, and many people know it as the Freedom Care program. It provides seniors and others with independence, while compensating their family and friends to assist them with all their needs.
As your loved ones start to age, basic tasks become more and more difficult for them. If you have a loved one in need of assistance with daily activities due to a disability or chronic condition, finding the right care for them may get confusing. That’s where the Freedom Care CDPAP program comes in. Freedom Care is a program designed to suit the specific needs of your loved ones. Unlike traditional caregiver models, Freedom Care offers a unique approach by allowing individuals and their families to take control of their care by choosing and managing their own caregivers. This program provides essential support while allowing independence for your loved ones. Let’s explore more about Freedom Care.
How does Freedom Care work?
Funded by Medicaid, Freedom Care is the top option for people who require assistance. It is a plan designed for people who require long term care. This allows individuals to receive first rate care while remaining in the comfort of their own homes. The comprehensive care plan ensures your loved ones will remain safe, happy and healthy while maintaining independence
Eligibility requirements
To be eligible for the Freedom Care CDPAP program you must meet the requirements set by Medicaid. These requirements are:
- Medicaid Eligibility: Individuals must be eligible for Medicaid in the state of New York to qualify for CDPAP.
- Need for Assistance: Participants must have a medical need for assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) or skilled nursing tasks.
- Self-Direction Capability: Individuals or their designated representatives must demonstrate the ability to make informed decisions about their care and manage their own services.
- Approval for Home Care Services: Participants must be assessed and approved for home care services through a Medicaid Managed Care Plan or the Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) program.
- Medical Certification: A licensed healthcare practitioner must certify the participant’s need for home care services and their ability to self-direct their care.
- Approval of Care Plan: Participants must have a care plan developed in collaboration with a registered nurse or other qualified healthcare professional, outlining the specific tasks and hours of care needed.
- Residence in New York State: Individuals must be residents of New York State to be eligible for the Freedom Care CDPAP program.
If you are eligible to apply for the Freedom Care program we recommend verifying you have the proper documents ready before starting the application process. This will help speed up the application process and ensure you get the assistance you need.
Required documents:
- Medicaid Eligibility Documentation: Proof of eligibility for Medicaid in New York, such as a Medicaid identification card or documentation from the New York State Department of Health.
- Medical Assessment: Medical documentation from a licensed healthcare practitioner certifying the individual’s need for home care services and ability to self-direct their care.
- Physician’s Orders: A prescription or physician’s orders specifying the types of services and hours of care needed.
- Care Plan: A care plan developed in collaboration with a registered nurse or other qualified healthcare professional, outlining the specific tasks and frequency of care required.
- Participant Information: Personal information about the individual applying for Freedom Care, including their name, address, Social Security number, and contact information.
- Designated Representative Information (if applicable): Information about the designated representative, if someone other than the participant will be managing the Freedom Care CDPAP services on their behalf.
- Consent Forms: Any required consent forms authorizing the release of medical information or allowing participation in the Freedom Care CDPAP program.
- Proof of Residence: Documentation proving that the individual applying for CDPAP is a resident of New York State.
- Financial Information: Some documentation related to income and assets may be required for Medicaid eligibility determination.
- Any Additional Required Forms: Depending on the individual’s specific circumstances and the Medicaid Managed Care Plan or Managed Long-Term Care (MLTC) program they are enrolled in, additional forms or documentation may be needed.
How to apply:
- Reach out to Freedom Care to express your interest in applying for the program. You can on the website or by calling their customer service line.
- Provide Required Documentation: Collect all necessary documents for the application process, including proof of Medicaid eligibility, medical assessment documentation, physician’s orders, participant information, designated representative information (if applicable), consent forms, proof of residence, and any additional required forms.
- Submit Application: Complete the application forms. Ensure that all required information is accurately filled out and that all supporting documents are included with your application.
- Wait for Approval: Once your application is submitted, wait for approval from Freedom Care. Freedom Care may reach out for additional required documents.
- Begin Freedom Care CDPAP Services: Upon approval, you can start receiving CDPAP services and begin managing your own care with the assistance of your chosen caregivers. Freedom Care will provide guidance and support throughout the process.
By following these steps, you can initiate the application process for the Freedom Care CDPAP program and take the first steps toward gaining greater independence and control over your care services.
FAQ’s:
Here are some frequently asked questions about Freedom Care:
Q: How long does it take to be approved?
A: It generally takes between two weeks to three months, depending on how fast your insurance sends approval.
Q: Who can I choose to be my caregiver?
A: Your son, daughter, grandchild, relative, friend or existing home attendant — anyone except your
• Legal spouse
• Designated representative
• Parent (if you are under 21).
Q: Do I need to pay to get enrolled?
A: No! This is a Medicaid-funded program; you will not pay anything.
Conclusion
The Freedom Care CDPAP program in New York lets people pick their caregivers and manage their care. It gives them control and makes life easier. With customized plans and flexible schedules, it helps folks live independently at home. It’s all about putting people first and helping them thrive.
