Tuesday, December 06, 2005
Alaska's self-directed personal care has implications for Wisconsin
Alaska is tightening rules for a program that provides personal care in the home for thousands of Alaskans who are elderly or have disabilities. Changes adopted last week require caregivers to have prior approval from the state before delivering services. A doctor must certify the care is needed. Clients must undergo regular assessments by a state contractor to create a plan of care. Some services may be limited.
Regulators say they hope to save money and improve accountability in the state-funded program, which has gotten attention for soaring costs -- up from $8 million in 2001 to $80 million this year. The state expects the new rules to stabilize the cost this coming year.
The changes are controversial and some who provide personal care say they worry frail and ill Alaskans will wait too long to get essential in-home help with basic needs.
Alaska altered the program four years ago to allow people in need to manage their own care and hire friends, neighbors and relatives as caregivers. The lax rules invited abuse, according to state officials.
The implications for Wisconsin's Family Care program, frothy-mouthed drive toward "cash-and-carry care" and ongoing Medicaid budget woes are as numerous as they are obvious. Is anyone paying attention?
Regulators say they hope to save money and improve accountability in the state-funded program, which has gotten attention for soaring costs -- up from $8 million in 2001 to $80 million this year. The state expects the new rules to stabilize the cost this coming year.
The changes are controversial and some who provide personal care say they worry frail and ill Alaskans will wait too long to get essential in-home help with basic needs.
Alaska altered the program four years ago to allow people in need to manage their own care and hire friends, neighbors and relatives as caregivers. The lax rules invited abuse, according to state officials.
The implications for Wisconsin's Family Care program, frothy-mouthed drive toward "cash-and-carry care" and ongoing Medicaid budget woes are as numerous as they are obvious. Is anyone paying attention?
