Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the difference between Home Health and Home & Community Based Services?

A: When you need medical care at home, there are two main types:

• Home Health: This is when a doctor orders care for a sudden illness or injury, for instance, after surgery. It's short-term and paid for by Medicare or private health insurance. Think of it as temporary help to get better.
• Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS): This program provides longer-term, hands-on help for older adults and people with disabilities who need ongoing assistance with daily tasks like bathing or getting dressed. The goal of HCBS is to help people stay in their homes and communities as much as possible. This program is funded by Medicaid and continues as long as the person meets program requirements.

Q:  How do I apply for services?

A: Submit a referral by services using the online portal. You may also call HCBS Intake and PCCP at 866-355-3505.

Q:  How do I request changes to my existing services?

A:  Call HCBS Intake and PCCP at 866-355-3505 or submit a request through the online portal.

Q:  Can I receive services if I have services authorized through another agency?

A: Yes, in most cases. HCBS is designed to help with things you need but are not currently getting support for. It won't replace the help you're already receiving.

Q: Can HCBS be authorized and delivered for an individual who lives with others?

A: Yes, but the help you get will depend on who lives in your home and what they are able to do. Usually, your plan won't include cleaning rooms such as the kitchen or living room that everyone uses. That's because someone in the house could reasonably do those chores if capable of doing so.

Q: Who can be my caregiver?

A: It depends on the program you are enrolled in.

• Consumer Directed Services (CDS): You can hire anyone except a legal spouse or guardian to be your caregiver.
• Agency Model In Home (IHS): The caregiver cannot be an immediate family member
• Structured Family Caregiving Waiver (SFCW):

Q: Does my caregiver have to pass a background check?

A: Yes, all caregivers, must pass a background check.

Q: Do I have to be homebound to receive services?

A: No.  HCBS helps people stay in their homes and be a part of their community. It gives them the support they need to live independently and join in community activities. This means they can participate in things like going to events, volunteering, or simply spending time with friends and family in their neighborhood. HCBS aims to help people be more included and feel like they belong.

Q: Can authorized time for transportation be used to take the individual to medical appointments?

A: In most cases, no. Other resources, such as Non-Emergency Medical Transportation that can be utilized for transportation to medical appointments. There are some exceptions that will be addressed on a case-by-case basis.

Q: Can time be authorized to help with the care of pets or service animals?

A: Taking care of pets, even service animals, is not permitted in the HCBS program. HCBS is focused on your health and well-being, not on animal care.

Q: Who do I contact about my Medicaid eligibility?

A: Contact Family Support Division (FSD) by visiting their website: Welcome to myDSS | mydss.mo.gov.

Q: Who do I contact about my spenddown?

A: Contact Family Support Division (FSD) by visiting their website: Welcome to myDSS | mydss.mo.gov.