1.Program Definition and Services
Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in Louisiana, also known as Personal Care Attendant Services, are designed to assist individuals with disabilities to perform daily living activities. These services include:
- Assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) such as eating, bathing, grooming, dressing, transferring, and toileting
- Assistance with instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) like light housekeeping, laundry, and food preparation
- Assistance with scheduling medical appointments
- Assistance to become physically mobile, maintain employment, or participate in community activities
2. Regulations
The program is governed by Louisiana Revised Statutes, specifically R.S. 40:2120.2. Additionally, providers must comply with regulations set forth by the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) for home- and community-based services providers.
3. Licensing or Certification
A license is required to operate as a Personal Care Attendant Services agency in Louisiana.
4. Responsible State Agency
The Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) is responsible for issuing the required license for Personal Care Attendant Services agencies
5. Application Process
The application process requires submission by mail. Providers must submit a completed application form and required documentation to the Louisiana Medicaid Provider Enrollment Unit
6. Required Documentation
The application packet must include:
- Completed Louisiana Medicaid PE-50 Enrollment Form
- Completed PE-50 Addendum – Provider Agreement
- Copy of IRS document showing Employer Identification Number (EIN)
- Completed LA Medicaid Entity Ownership Disclosure Information form or Individual Disclosure Information form
- Completed Medicaid Direct Deposit (EFT) Authorization Agreement
- Copy of voided check for electronic fund deposits
- Copy of the Personal Care Attendant License issued by the Department of Health and Hospitals
- Proof of financial viability
- Line of credit from a federally insured, licensed lending institution for at least $50,000
- General and professional liability insurance of at least $300,000
- Worker's compensation insurance
7. Timeline for Approval
The exact timeline for approval is not specified in the provided information. However, the Medicaid application process can take up to 3 months or longer from the beginning of the application process through the receipt of the determination letter
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. However, providers must ensure they meet all eligibility criteria before applying.
9. Pre-Application Training
While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, staff providing personal care services must meet specific educational and certification requirements, including:
- Direct support staff must complete training in areas such as CPR, First Aid, and personal care
- For clinical services, staff must hold active Louisiana licenses
10. Additional Notes
- Providers must develop a service plan in collaboration with the member/member's family, outlining specific activities to be performed, including frequency and duration
- Service plans must be updated at least every six months or more frequently based on changes to the member's needs or preferences
- All staff must undergo criminal background checks and checks through the Louisiana State Police and the Office of Inspector General (OIG) Exclusions List
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