Learn How to Get Paid to Take Care of Family in Allentown, PA

Are you wondering how to get paid to take care of family in Allentown, PA? It’s true that caring for a family member is a deeply personal and often rewarding responsibility. However, the financial aspects of caregiving can sometimes be challenging. Fortunately, in Allentown, PA, there are programs and resources available that allow family caregivers to receive compensation for the valuable work they do. 

Top Ways to Get Paid to Take Care of Family Allentown, PA

In this blog post, we’ll explore the options and steps you can take to get paid while taking care of your family member in Allentown.

Understanding Pennsylvania’s Medicaid Programs


Medicaid, the joint federal and state program that helps with medical costs for some people with limited income and resources, offers various programs that may provide compensation for family caregivers. 

In Pennsylvania, the Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) is a program that covers a range of home and community-based services. MLTSS allows eligible individuals to receive care in their homes, often provided by family members who then receive compensation. 

Eligibility Criteria for Medicaid and MLTSS 


To qualify for compensation through Medicaid programs, both the caregiver and the care recipient must meet certain eligibility criteria. Usually, the care recipient needs to require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and be financially eligible for Medicaid. The caregiver is typically required to be a family member, and some programs may necessitate formal certification or training.

Determining the Level of Care for Medicaid Programs


Medicaid programs usually assess the care recipient’s needs to determine the appropriate level of care required. This assessment helps in establishing the number of hours and the type of care that will be covered through the program. The caregiver’s role may involve assisting with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and medication management.

Seeking Professional Guidance for Medicaid

Medicaid programs can be challenging and complex. However, AmeriBest Home Care can help.  Call AmeriBest at 1-800-HOMECARE for assistance! We are happy to help and guide you through your caregiving journey.

 

Participating in Caregiver Support Programs

Like many other communities, Allentown has local organizations and support groups for caregivers. Joining these groups can be beneficial not only for emotional support but also for information on available resources. Some support programs may offer additional financial assistance or respite services to give caregivers a break. 

The state’s programs are constantly changing depending on funding. You’ll want to look for current programs that are accepting applications for compensation for caregiving services. 

How do you keep track of all that? You don’t have to if you join AmeriBest! We will help you navigate the caregiving journey with grace. You can get trained and employed, access our amazing benefits package, and make a difference in your community. Call 1800-HOMECARE and ask us how to get paid for caregiving!

Researching Other Financial Assistance Programs

In addition to Medicaid, other financial assistance programs available at both the state and federal levels should be explored. Programs like the Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Veterans Aid and Attendance can provide financial support to eligible individuals.

Documenting Care for Compensation 

Keeping thorough records of the care provided is essential. Document the tasks performed, hours spent caregiving, and any significant changes in the care recipient’s condition. This documentation will be crucial during the application process and may be required for ongoing eligibility so you can get paid to take care of your family in Allentown, PA. 

Caring for a family member in Allentown, PA, can be both a labor of love and a financial challenge. However, with a thorough understanding of available programs, eligibility criteria, and proactive steps, you can navigate the system and potentially receive compensation for the caregiving services you provide. 

Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice and connect with local support groups to ensure you’re making the most of the resources available as a dedicated caregiver.

Discover the Exceptional Standard of Home Care at AmeriBest!

No matter if you’re in Philadelphia, Allentown, Harrisburg, or beyond, our team of compassionate and skilled professionals are at your service. Contact us. 

As your reliable ally in delivering top-notch senior care at home, reach out to AmeriBest Home Care today for further information.

 

Honoring Our Caregivers on National Caregivers Day

Dear Caregivers,

Today, on National Caregivers Day, we pause to express our deepest gratitude to each and every one of you who tirelessly dedicate your time, energy, and love to caring for your loved ones. Whether you’re a family member, a friend, or a professional caregiver, your selfless commitment to providing care makes a profound difference in the lives of those you support.

Did you know that caregiving is more prevalent than ever before? With an aging population and increasing instances of chronic illnesses, the demand for caregivers has skyrocketed. In fact, statistics show that nearly 53 million Americans are providing unpaid care to an adult or child with special needs. This staggering number highlights the crucial role caregivers play in our society.

In Pennsylvania, caregiving holds a special significance within the fabric of communities. Our state’s rich history and diverse population foster an environment where caregiving flourishes. From Philadelphia to Harrisburg to Allentown, caregivers in Pennsylvania come from all walks of life, united by their dedication to providing compassionate care to those in need.

At AmeriBest Home Care, we also understand the sacrifices that come with caregiving. We recognize the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take on individuals and families. That’s why we’re here to offer support every step of the way. Our team is dedicated to providing comprehensive home care services tailored to meet the unique needs of each client and their caregiver.

We know the importance of financial stability, especially for those who have chosen caregiving as a profession. That’s why we offer competitive compensation packages and opportunities for professional growth and development. We believe that caregivers deserve to be valued and rewarded for their hard work and dedication, and we’re happy to stand by your side in doing so.

On this special day and every day, we want to extend our deepest thanks to all caregivers for the hard work you do. Your compassion, patience, and resilience inspire us every day. Remember, you’re not alone on this journey. AmeriBest Home Care is here to support you. Call 1800-HOMECARE with any questions!

Thank you for all that you do.

Sincerely,

AmeriBest Home Care

What home health care is offered to seniors and people with disabilities in Pennsylvania? 

home health care in Pennsylvania

What home health care is offered to seniors and people with disabilities in Pennsylvania? 

Home health care in Pennsylvania is designed to help seniors and the disabled live independently and stay in their own homes as long as possible. With home health care, you’ll receive the care you require while having the convenience of remaining in your own home.  

What is Home Health Care in Pennsylvania?

Home health care encompasses several different services, from primary care to skilled nursing. The benefit of choosing home care is that statistically, individuals who receive this kind of care are 5-15% less likely to enter a nursing home or a hospital. 

The first step in finding home health care is understanding the available services. Home health care often serves as a way to provide skilled care after a hospitalization, injury, or illness. However, home health care can also be used to help seniors and the disabled continue to maintain their self-sufficiency. 

Home health care can be divided into two main categories: medical and non-medical. The services offered vary within each of these categories. Depending upon your situation, you may need one or the other, or both types of home care. 

Please note: AmeriBest is a non-skilled home care services provider, but we’ll be with you every step of the way, for hours a day, if needed and prescribed by your physician, instead of checking in on you once in a while. Call us at 1800-HOMECARE and ask about the services available!

Medical Home Health Care

Medical home health care, also referred to as skilled home health, is often required after hospitalization or an illness. Types of services offered under the umbrella of medical home health care include: 

  • Skilled Nursing
  • Physical therapy
  • Assistance with medical equipment
  • Wound care for surgical wounds or pressure wounds
  • Injections
  • Intravenous medications
  • Medical oversight of an unstable condition
  • Occupational therapy
  • Speech therapy

To get medical home health care, you’ll need the individual’s health care provider to provide orders for services. Your medical home health care team will work directly with the health care provider to keep them up to date on your progress.  

Non-Medical Home Health Care

Non-medical home health care provides a broader level of service that helps provide assistance to help maintain self-sufficiency. Receiving non-medical home care without a doctor’s order will be an out-of-pocket expense. If you need insurance to pay (or even partially pay), you will need to get a doctor’s order to receive non-medical home health care in Pennsylvania. 

Care can be daily for several hours to just a few hours a week, depending on an individual’s needs. Services provided with non-medical home health care include: 

  • Light housekeeping
  • Meal preparation
  • Laundry
  • Bathing
  • Dressing
  • Shopping
  • Companionship
  • Medication reminders
  • Appointment scheduling
  • Coordinating health transportation and care, and more.

Caregivers can work with an individual to maintain the hygiene and safety of their space and make sure individuals are eating correctly and taking their medications according to the doctor’s orders. Non-medical home care is an appealing option for seniors and people with disabilities who want to remain in their own homes rather than move to a skilled nursing facility and don’t necessarily need skilled nursing services.

home health care in Pennsylvania

Choosing the Right Home Health Care in Pennsylvania for You

When choosing the proper home health care for you and your loved ones, you want a team that is qualified to meet your needs and dedicated to providing the best care possible. AmeriBest’s sole focus is helping seniors and people with disabilities of Pennsylvania maintain as much independence as possible by providing non-medical home care from reliable caregivers.

With multiple programs and services available, the AmeriBest Team can help walk you through what’s available to help your loved ones get the right kind of care that will help foster their self-sufficiency and independence. Empower your loved one’s well-being – contact us today to discuss our available services and get paired with one of our compassionate caregivers.  

 

Accessing Home Care in Harrisburg, PA

Accessing Home Care in Harrisburg, PA

Choosing home care in Harrisburg, PA, can help improve the quality of life for loved ones who need additional assistance with daily functions. Home care is available for both short-term recovery from an illness or injury and long-term care for seniors and the disabled. 

Home care is a common choice for those looking to avoid or delay moving to a nursing home. The home care assistance available to you will vary depending on your doctor’s orders and your eligibility for the government programs available in Harrisburg. Call Ameribest at 1800-HOMECARE and ask us about the services available! We’ll be happy to see if non-skilled home care is the right match for you.

Free Home Care Services Eligibility

Numerous factors play a role in determining your eligibility for home care in Harrisburg, PA, including: 

  • Medical Necessity
  • Insurance
  • Age
  • Location

Medical Necessity

You always have the option to enroll in in-home care for your loved ones at your discretion if you are paying out-of-pocket. However, if you are planning on getting insurance to cover the cost (even partially), you’ll need the individual’s physician to confirm medical need by placing an order for care. 

Insurance

Each insurance provider has its own determination on what conditions are eligible for home care. Additionally, your insurance provider may also determine which type of home care the individual can receive. Many times, you’ll need a physician to determine that home care is a medical necessity to keep the individual safe and receive coverage.  

Age or Disability

Many individuals who receive home care use Medicare to help cover the cost. Age is one of the key determining factors for Medicare eligibility and, thus, home care. Medicare is designed for individuals 65 or older, but in certain circumstances, an individual can receive coverage due to a disability outside of the age requirements. 

Medicaid

In Pennsylvania, Medicaid plays a crucial role in facilitating access to home care services for eligible individuals. The state’s Medicaid program, also known as Medical Assistance (MA), extends its coverage to encompass a range of home-based care options, allowing residents to receive necessary services and assistance in the comfort of their homes. 

This includes services such as skilled nursing care, personal daily care assistance, and therapy services if needed. Pennsylvania’s Medicaid program aims to support individuals with diverse needs by fostering an environment that promotes independence and well-being through home-based care. 

Feel free to give us a call at 1800-HOMECARE and ask about the services we offer!

Location

Many home care providers are limited in the geographic regions they serve. Once you determine that you can receive coverage for home health services, you’ll need to ensure that your home is within the area the home health provider you want to work with serves. 

Programs for Home Care in Pennsylvania

The state of Pennsylvania has a program designated explicitly for Help at Home, more commonly known as OPTIONS. This program is geared towards PA residents who are 60+ years old and wish to stay in their own homes rather than move to a respite or nursing home. 

Some of the services offered through the OPTIONS program include:

  • Assistance with daily activities
  • Supervised and interactive care
  • Basic Housekeeping
  • Laundry
  • Fumigation as needed
  • In-home meals
  • Care plan management

Accessing Home Care in Harrisburg, PA

How To Access Home Care in Harrisburg, PA

Figuring out what home care options are available in the area can be confusing and overwhelming. AmeriBest Home Care can help answer questions and provide guidance on what services are best suited to your needs. 

AmeriBest Home Care is a Medicaid certified agency in Harrisburg that provides many senior services. Our team would be happy to discuss your options. Give AmeriBest Home Care a call at 1800-HOMECARE to help you get your loved one set up with the home health care they need to improve their quality of life. 

 

Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia

Becoming a Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia, PA: A Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a paid family caregiver in Philadelphia, PA, comes with a unique set of responsibilities and rewards. At AmeriBest Home Care, we understand this role goes beyond just providing physical and emotional support to your loved ones; it encompasses navigating complex legal and financial issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through the essential steps to become a paid family caregiver in Pennsylvania, ensuring you’re well-equipped to offer both emotional and financial support to those you care for.

The Emotional and Physical Impact of Family Caregiving

Caring for a family member is more than just a responsibility; it’s a profound act of love and dedication. As a paid family caregiver, you ensure your loved one receives compassionate care from someone they deeply trust and cherish. This role, while physically and emotionally taxing, is also a source of immense fulfillment, strengthening your bond. However, it’s important to acknowledge the varied impacts of caregiving:

  • Emotional Stress: Caregivers often face stress and anxiety, feeling overwhelmed by the continuous caregiving demands.
  • Physical Strain: The role’s physical aspects, like lifting, can lead to fatigue and injury.
  • Social Isolation: Engagement in social activities may decrease, causing loneliness.
  • Health Risks: Persistent stress heightens the risk of depression and other stress-related conditions.
  • Reward and Satisfaction: Despite challenges, caregiving offers a profound sense of fulfillment and emotional connection.
  • Personal Growth: The experience fosters empathy, patience, and resilience, enhancing personal development.
  • Improved Relationships: Caregiving often deepens the bond between caregiver and recipient, creating a stronger connection.
  • Sense of Purpose: Many caregivers discover a renewed purpose and meaning in life through this caring role.

Understanding Medicaid Waivers in Pennsylvania

In Pennsylvania, family caregivers can receive financial support through Medicaid Waivers. These waivers, under broad federal guidelines, allow the state more flexibility to pay for personal care and household services for individuals living outside of long-term care facilities. This is especially beneficial for older adults or individuals with disabilities living in their homes or with family members. The Pennsylvania Department of Human Services oversees various Medical Assistance/Medicaid waivers, each with distinct eligibility criteria and services. These include:

  • Adult Autism Waiver (AAW)
  • Aging Waiver
  • Alternatives To Nursing Homes
  • Attendant Care Waiver
  • Community HealthChoices
  • Community Living Waiver
  • Consolidated Waiver
  • Independence Waiver
  • Infant, Toddlers, and Families Waiver
  • Medicaid Waivers for Intellectual Disabilities Supports and Services
  • OBRA Waiver
  • Person/Family Directed Support Waiver

Each waiver is designed to cater to specific needs, promoting community-based support and enhancing the quality of life for Pennsylvanians in need.

Eligibility for Paid Family Caregiving in Philadelphia

To become a paid family caregiver, you must qualify through the eligibility criteria. These include both financial and functional requirements. A key component is obtaining physician certification, indicating the need for long-term services and support. Additionally, income and asset limits are set by the state, which you must meet to qualify for the Medicaid Waiver Program under Community HealthChoices (CHC).

Upon qualifying for the CHC waiver, individuals gain access to both standard Medicaid benefits and additional waiver services. Behavioral health care, including mental health and substance use disorder treatments, is provided through a managed care plan determined by the individual’s county. For physical health needs like primary care, hospital visits, specialists, dental services, and home-based services, beneficiaries utilize a Community HealthChoices managed care plan. There are three CHC plan options:

1. AmeriHealth Caritas CHC (known as Keystone First CHC in Bucks, Chester, Delaware,

Montgomery and Philadelphia Counties)

2. Pennsylvania Health & Wellness

3. UPMC Community HealthChoices

At the onset of waiver eligibility, individuals are informed about these plan options and can change their plan anytime. Without a specific choice, automatic enrollment in a CHC plan will occur. Working with a Pennsylvania Independent Enrollment Broker facilitates enrollment and eligibility for CHC. They are an essential resource for understanding the various programs and services available and can guide you through the application process.

Choosing a Home Care Agency

Once eligibility is confirmed, the next step is to select a home care agency that allows the employment of family members. This choice is crucial, as the agency will be your partner in providing high-quality care. They offer training, development, and support, ensuring that you are well-equipped to care for your loved one. It’s not just about finding an organization that allows you to care for your loved one; it’s about choosing a partner that aligns with your caregiving philosophy and values.

The chosen home care agency will be instrumental in your development as a family caregiver. They provide essential training, development opportunities, and ongoing support. This guidance is crucial, especially if you’re new to caregiving. The agency will help equip you with the skills and knowledge necessary to provide the best possible care to your loved one. Their resources and support can make a significant difference in your confidence and effectiveness as a caregiver, ensuring that you’re not just caring for your loved one but also growing and learning in the role.

Compensation for Family Caregivers in Philadelphia

Compensation for family caregivers in Philadelphia, PA, varies depending on the home care agency. However, all agencies receiving Medicaid waiver payments have a similar pay range, determined by the state’s reimbursement rates. It’s important to consider not just the pay but also the additional benefits and training opportunities the agency offers.

Paid Family Caregiver in Philadelphia

 

AmeriBest Home Care: Committed to Supporting Philadelphia Family Caregivers

At AmeriBest Home Care, our dedication lies in empowering family caregivers throughout Pennsylvania. We understand the complexities and nuances involved in becoming a paid family caregiver in Philadelphia.

Our team is equipped to guide you through every step of this process. From clarifying eligibility criteria to assisting in selecting the ideal home care agency for your unique situation, we’re here to offer comprehensive support. We believe in making the transition to a paid caregiver as smooth and informed as possible. Reach out to us at 1-800-HOMECARE today to begin your journey.Â