1. Program Definition and Services 

Personal assistance services in Michigan, often provided through programs like the Home Help Program, offer in-home personal care assistance to individuals who are elderly or disabled. These services include help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) such as bathing, dressing, and toileting, as well as Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs) like meal preparation and housekeeping. The program allows beneficiaries to hire family members or friends as caregivers, excluding spouses and parents of minors 

2. Regulations 

Key regulations governing personal assistance services include: 

• Michigan Medicaid Regulations: Services must comply with Medicaid standards for reimbursement. 

• Michigan Mental Health Code: Establishes guidelines for services related to mental health and developmental disabilities. 

• HCBS Final Rule: Although primarily applicable to waiver services, it emphasizes community integration and beneficiary choice. 

3. Licensing or Certification 

To operate as a personal assistance services provider, particularly under the Home Help Program, you typically do not need a specific license. However, caregivers must enroll as Medicaid providers through the CHAMPS system to receive reimbursement. For agency providers, they may need to meet specific qualifications and standards set by MDHHS. 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) is responsible for overseeing personal assistance services, including the Home Help Program. 

5. Application Process 

Individual caregivers must enroll through the online CHAMPS Provider Enrollment (PE) subsystem to be reimbursed for services. Agency providers may need to contact MDHHS for specific enrollment procedures. 

6. Required Documentation 

• Business Registration Documents: For agency providers. 

• Insurance and Liability Coverage: Proof of adequate insurance coverage for agencies. 

• Staff Qualifications: Documentation of staff qualifications, including training records. 

• Medicaid Enrollment Forms: Completed forms for Medicaid provider enrollment. 

• Background Checks: For individual caregivers, background checks are required 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The approval timeline varies depending on the completeness of the application. Generally, it can take several weeks to a few months. 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-license application process, but potential providers should familiarize themselves with state regulations and requirements before applying. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While not explicitly mandated as a pre-application requirement, providers must ensure their staff are trained in personal care and recipient rights before delivering services. 

10. Additional Notes 

• Consumer-Directed Care: Beneficiaries have the option to self-direct their care by hiring family members or friends as caregivers, promoting independence and choice 

• Electronic Visit Verification (EVV): Required for documenting services, except for live-in caregivers who meet specific criteria 

To get started, click the link to request portal access