1. Program Definition and Services 

Respite Care Services in Massachusetts are provided to individuals unable to care for themselves and are furnished on a short-term basis due to the absence or need for relief of those people who normally provide care for the participant. Services may include: 

• Personal care services 

• Supervision 

• Assistance with activities of daily living 

• Health care tasks 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by 110 CMR 7.000 of the Massachusetts Code of Regulations, specifically Section 7.050 - Respite Care for Families with Developmentally Disabled Members 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be certified by MassHealth to participate as a Medical Respite Provider 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Department of Children and Families and the Department of Mental Retardation are responsible for overseeing respite care services in Massachusetts 

5. Application Process 

The application process is conducted online through the MassHealth Provider Online Service Center. Providers must complete the MassHealth provider application and agreement 

6. Required Documentation 

To be eligible for participation as a Medical Respite Provider, an entity must provide: 

• Proof of at least two years of experience providing medical respite services 

• Evidence of current licensure as a hospital or nursing facility 

• Documentation of compliance with all applicable federal and state laws and regulations 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The timeline for approval is not specified in the available information. Providers should contact MassHealth directly for more details on the approval process timeline. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned in the available information. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No pre-application training is explicitly mentioned in the provided information. However, providers must demonstrate experience in providing medical respite services 

10. Additional Notes 

• Respite services may be provided in various locations, including Adult Foster Care Programs, hospitals, Skilled Nursing Facilities, Rest Homes, Assisted Living Residences, and DDS Licensed Respite Facilities 

• Providers must meet specific eligibility criteria, including having experience in providing home and community-based respite services 

• The Respite Innovations Grant Program offers opportunities for organizations to enhance and expand respite services in Massachusetts