CONSUMER DIRECTED PERSONAL ASSISTANCE: PERSONAL CARE AT HOME

The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance (CDPA) program offers a transformative alternative to traditional home care, empowering eligible New Yorkers to take control of their personal care by hiring and directing their own personal assistants. Designed for individuals enrolled in Medicaid who require assistance with daily living activities—such as bathing, dressing, eating, housekeeping, or mobility—CDPA allows participants to choose trusted individuals, including most family members, neighbors, or friends, to provide these services. This person-centered approach ensures that care is tailored to the individual’s unique needs and preferences, fostering independence and dignity while enabling them to remain in the comfort and familiarity of their own homes. Eligibility for CDPA is determined through an assessment by the New York Independent Assessor Program (NYIAP) or a local Office for Aging, ensuring that participants meet Medicaid’s criteria for requiring home-based care.

CDPA stands out for its flexibility and emphasis on consumer choice, allowing participants to manage their assistants’ schedules, tasks, and training to best suit their lifestyle. Unlike traditional personal care models, which often assign caregivers through agencies, CDPA puts decision-making power in the hands of the consumer, promoting a sense of autonomy and personalized support. The program is supported by Fiscal Intermediaries, who handle administrative tasks such as payroll and compliance, allowing participants to focus on their care and daily lives. By prioritizing home-based care, CDPA aligns with the belief that there’s no place like home, helping individuals maintain their independence and connection to their communities.