What is the Michigan Home Help Program?
The Michigan Home Help Program, administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), is designed to support individuals who wish to live independently in their homes rather than in adult foster care homes, homes for the aged, or nursing facilities. This program provides funding for qualified individuals to hire someone to assist them with their daily activities.
Understanding the Michigan Home Help Program
The Home Help Program offers personal care services to eligible Medicaid beneficiaries who need hands-on assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs). The primary goal is to enable individuals to maintain their independence and continue living safely in their own homes.
Who Can Benefit from This Program?
To qualify for the Home Help Program, individuals must:
Residency: Be residents of Michigan.
Medicaid Eligibility: Have active Medicaid coverage.
Need for Assistance: Require physical assistance with at least one activity of daily living (ADL).
An adult services worker will conduct a comprehensive assessment in the individual's home to determine the level of need and eligibility for services.
What Services Does the Home Help Program Cover?
The program may cover assistance with the following activities:
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs):
Eating or feeding
Bathing
Dressing
Grooming
Mobility within the home
Transferring from one position to another
Toileting
Complex care tasks (e.g., catheter care, wound care, respiratory treatments)
Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs):
Medication administration or setup
Laundry
Light housework
Meal preparation and cleanup
Shopping for essential items
It's important to note that certain services, such as heavy housework, home repairs, supervision, transportation, and yard work, are not covered by the Home Help Program.
How Does the Program Work?
Application Process: Individuals interested in the program should contact the Adult Services unit at their local MDHHS office. An adult services worker will conduct an in-home assessment to determine eligibility and the specific services required.
Caregiver Selection: Participants have the right to choose their caregivers. The selected caregiver must be enrolled and approved through the MDHHS CHAMPS Provider Enrollment subsystem to receive payment for services rendered.
Service Provision and Payment: Once approved, the caregiver provides the authorized services, and payments are made based on the data recorded through the required service verification methods. As of September 3, 2024, all Home Help individual caregivers are required to use Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) in addition to existing service verification methods.
Why Is This Program Important?
The Michigan Home Help Program is vital as it:
Promotes Independence: Enables individuals to live in their own homes, preserving their autonomy and comfort.
Provides Financial Support: Assists with funding for necessary personal care services, reducing the financial burden on individuals and families.
Offers Flexibility in Care: Allows participants to select caregivers of their choice, including certain family members, fostering personalized and trusted care relationships.
Get Help with Michigan Home Assistance Today
If you or a loved one requires assistance through this program:
Contact the Local MDHHS Office: Reach out to the Adult Services unit at your local county MDHHS office to express interest and begin the assessment process.
Prepare Necessary Documentation: Be ready to provide information regarding your Medicaid status and the specific assistance needed with daily activities.
The Michigan Home Help Program is a valuable resource for residents needing in-home assistance to maintain their independence. By understanding the program's offerings and application process, individuals can access essential support tailored to their needs.
For more detailed information or personalized assistance, visit the www.michiganhomehelp.org or contact us at 313-982-3795.