A final rule that would allow more Medicaid beneficiaries to be in charge of their own personal assistance services, including personal care services, instead of having those services directed by an agency, was announced Sept. 29 by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).
The rule guides states who wish to allow Medicaid beneficiaries who need help with the activities of daily living to hire, direct, train, or fire their own personal care workers. Beneficiaries could also hire qualified family members who may already be familiar with the individual’s needs to perform personal assistance (not medical) services.
The notice of final rule is published in today's issue of the Federal Register. The final rule will be effective Nov. 3, 2008. Download the final rule.
