We have exciting news for families in New Jersey! Governor Phil Murphy recently signed important legislation that will greatly benefit those who have loved ones enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare. This legislation, known as the "Homemaker-Home Health Aide Program," establishes a new program that allows eligible family members to become certified as homemaker-home health aides. Let's break down what this means for you and your family.

Who is Eligible? Under the Homemaker-Home Health Aide Program, "family member" is defined as a child, parent, parent-in-law, sibling, grandparent, grandchild, spouse, domestic partner, or one partner in a civil union couple, as well as any other individual related by blood or with a close association that is equivalent to a family relationship.

To qualify for this program, the enrollee in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare must be under 21 years of age and meet the eligibility criteria for receiving homemaker-home health aide services. The Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services in the Department of Human Services will develop an assessment tool to identify enrollees who meet these criteria easily.

What Does the Program Offer? Once approved for the program, eligible family members can undergo certification as homemaker-home health aides through the New Jersey Board of Nursing. After receiving certification, under the guidance of a registered nurse, these family members can provide homemaker-home health aide services to the enrollee through a home care services agency.

No Financial Burden One of the most significant advantages of this program is that the costs associated with becoming certified as a homemaker-home health aide will be covered by the employing agency. Family members participating in the program will not be required to repay or reimburse the agency for these costs.

Reimbursement Rate Homemaker-home health aide services provided by certified family members or approved third-party individuals will be reimbursed to the home care services agency at a rate of no less than $30 per hour. This ensures that the quality of care is maintained and supports those enrolled in Medicaid or NJ FamilyCare.

Future Evaluation The Director of the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services will prepare a report within three years after the program's establishment. This report will assess the program's viability and provide recommendations to improve its effectiveness.

Implementing the Legislation To implement the provisions of this act, the Assistant Commissioner of the Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services and the New Jersey Board of Nursing will adopt rules and regulations as necessary. The Commissioner of Human Services will apply for any required State plan amendments or waivers to secure federal financial participation for State Medicaid expenditures.

This legislation takes effect immediately.

The Homemaker-Home Health Aide Program has the potential to make a significant difference in the lives of families across the state, offering a unique and rewarding pathway for family members to provide care and support. At Care Connect NJ, we are committed to assisting families in finding the best senior care options, and this new program aligns with our mission to provide comprehensive support and solutions.

For more information or to discuss your specific needs, please don't hesitate to reach out to us. Together, we can navigate the evolving landscape of senior care and empower families to make informed decisions for their loved ones.