How CDS Works in Missouri

You may be someone who is looking for healthcare at home, but found that the price could be a bit revolting. Thankfully, there exists an option that allows consumers, aka the client, to use Missouri’s Medicaid, known as MoHealthNet, to hire a personal care assistant and to pay for the care provided. Best of all, the caregiver is able to earn some cash. Read on to learn more.

First of all, what is “CDS”? CDS stands for “Consumer Directed Services.” Based on the wording, we can tell that the consumer directs someone for their services. In this case, the service is provided by the PCA, or Personal Care Attendant. You may have heard a PCA being called a “caregiver” as well. In this program, the consumer chooses their own caregiver to be the designated PCA.

Choosing your PCA can be a tough decision, but thankfully, you have a lot of options. The Personal Care Attendant is generally someone that you trust. It could be your friend, or a family member like your sibling. Take a look at this chart to know who can or cannot be your PCA.

When you have a personal care attendant in mind, you should start the application process. Your first step is to see if you meet the requirements to begin. Thankfully, there is an easy way to determine this. Simply call 816-659-9392 to talk to the Intake Team at The Whole Person to start the intake process.

Potential consumers in Missouri will need to contact the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS) and they will assess your eligibility for the program. A “plan of care” is created by DHSS, which will determine what types of services the consumer can receive. This is personalized to each consumer. Not only that, but DHSS will also determine the maximum number of hours that a caregiver can be paid for.

You will be assigned a Case Manager that will assist you throughout your CDS process. For questions about the Consumer Directed Services, your CDS Case Manager will be able to answer.

Now that you have been set up for CDS, what’s next? Well, now your PCA, is able to begin working. Your Case Manager will train your PCA how to log their hours of work. The chosen hours are versatile and are something that is agreed upon by the PCA and Consumer. As mentioned before, be aware that there is a maximum number of hours per month that can be paid for, as set by the DHSS. It is important to talk with your PCA to determine the best dates and times for them to work. Remember that this is flexible, so the caregiver is able to work different hours each week.

The PCA’s duties are dependent on what was approved by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. These tasks may include assisting with bathing, cooking, or even grooming. For a full list of tasks, please check out The Whole Person’s CDS page.

As you can see, Consumer Directed Services is a great way to have your caregiver get paid while also receiving healthcare. Having someone you trust be your personal care attendant is beneficial and makes communication a lot easier. Be sure to start your CDS journey today.

For more information about the CDS program, please CLICK HERE

To apply at DHSS, please CLICK HERE