1. Program Definition and Services 

Personal Assistance Services, also known as Consumer-Directed Attendant Services or personal care attendant (PCA) services, enable eligible members with disabilities to remain in their homes and maximize their independent living opportunities. These services include assistance with: 

• Activities of daily living (ADLs) 

• Instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs) 

• Health maintenance activities 

2. Regulations 

Personal Assistance Services are governed by MaineCare regulations, specifically Section 12 of the MaineCare Benefits Manual 

3. Licensing or Certification 

As of August 2024, personal care agencies are required to be licensed with the state 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Maine Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) is responsible for licensing and overseeing Personal Assistance Services providers 

5. Application Process 

Providers must apply for licensure through the Maine DHHS. The process involves submitting an application and paying the required fees 

6. Required Documentation 

While specific documentation requirements may vary, providers typically need to submit: 

• Completed application form 

• Proof of staff qualifications and training 

• Evidence of compliance with state regulations 

• Background check results for all employees 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The specific timeline for approval is not provided in the available results. However, the licensing process may take several weeks to complete. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. However, potential providers should review the licensing requirements and ensure they can meet all standards before applying. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

Training requirements for Personal Support Specialists (PSS) include: 

• Completion of a Department-approved training course 

• Minimum of 40 classroom hours and a 10-hour face-to-face clinical component 

10. Additional Notes 

• Personal Assistance Services are consumer-directed, meaning the eligible member hires, trains, supervises, and if necessary, terminates their own attendant 

• Family members may be hired as Personal Support Specialists, with some exceptions (e.g., spouses can only be reimbursed for extraordinary care)  

• As of July 1, 2020, spouses may be reimbursed for providing extraordinary care when authorized by the Service Coordination Agency 

• Providers must undergo criminal background checks and be listed on the Maine Registry of Certified Nursing Assistants and Direct Care Workers