The Client Directed Home Care Program was introduced in January 2023 and provides funding for Alberta seniors to receive home care services that are consistent and affordable.
The Client Directed Home Care Invoicing option is offered by Alberta Health Services (AHS) to support clients with in-home care, respite care, and companion care services.
Ohana Care is a approved agency for the Client Directed Home Care Invoicing Program for both Calgary and Edmonton, Alberta areas.
What are the Benefits of the Client Directed Home Care Program?
Direct Billing
We will directly bill Alberta Blue Cross. The program covers the majority of your care.
Say Goodbye to Administration Headaches
If you previously were using the self-managed care program, you were required to hire private caregivers and manage all the administration involved. By choosing Ohana Care, we take care of finding you the right caregiving team with oversight from our Registered Nurses.
Choose the Best Provider for Your Family
You’re free to choose your preferred home care provider as long as they are approved by Alberta Blue Cross. This means you’re no longer required to choose a provider based on the area you live in.
Frequently Asked Questions About The CDHCI Program
How Is the Client Directed Home Care Program Different Than Self Managed Care?
| Self Managed Care | Client Directed Home Care Program |
|---|---|
| Client or legal representative hires an individual or agency | The agency employs staff |
| AHS does not mandate the agency, individual insurance, or criminal reference checks | CDHCI agencies must meet insurance and criminal background checks |
| Client/Legal representative only to manage | A person without legal authority can manage the agreement |
| Hourly rate of $24.65 | Hourly rate of $32.92 (As of September 1, 2023) |
| Agreement that the holder must submit receipts to AHS | The agency submits claims to Alberta Blue Cross directly |
What is the Client Directed Home Care Program?
The Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) program allows new or current AHS Community Home Care clients to choose an eligible private home care provider to deliver personal care services up to AHS-authorized monthly hours. By using the CDHCI program, clients can have more control over scheduling and directing their care while minimizing administrative responsibilities and financial burdens. This program is especially beneficial for clients with short-term intensive needs, cultural considerations, or those living in areas where it is difficult for AHS to arrange services.
How do I become eligible for the Client Directed Home Care Services?
To be eligible for the CDHCI program, you must:
- Be eligible for home care services as determined by an AHS assessment
- Have a home care assessment that determines the CDHCI program as a suitable mode of service delivery
- Ensure that the CDHCI program does not create a conflict of interest with any other AHS policy or Service Agreement
- Require a predictable level of service
- Be an Alberta resident with a valid health care card
- Be able to pay for any difference between the AHS-funded hourly rate and the Home Care Provider hourly rate.
How do I get started with the Client Directed Home Care Program?
Contact your current AHS Case Manager to discuss your eligibility for the CDHCI program, or contact the AHS Community Home Care Intake line to self-refer to the program. They will organize a Case Manager to come to your house to complete an assessment of your needs and develop a Service Care Plan outlining the approved hours and maximum care you’ve been approved for each month.
Sign the necessary documents: Sign the Consent to Disclose Information form and the Letter of Agreement, which outlines the terms and responsibilities of the CDHCI program. Your case manager will provide you with these forms.
Choose a Care Provider Agency: Select your preferred provider from the approved private vendors list provided by Alberta Blue Cross. Ohana Care is an approved agency in the Calgary and Edmonton area.
Direct your care: Work with your chosen Care Provider Agency to schedule your services and build an individualized care plan for the staff providing your care.
Pay for services not covered by the CDHCI program: You are responsible for paying the Care Provider Agency for any charges/expenses not covered by the CDHCI program, such as additional hours beyond the approved maximum, overtime, vacation pay, or equipment costs.
Ongoing communication with AHS and Alberta Blue Cross: Keep your AHS Case Manager informed of any changes to your condition or care provider status. Also, notify AHS and Alberta Blue Cross of any changes to your address or contact information.
Conclusion
By following these steps and utilizing the CDHCI program, clients can have more control over their preferred home care services while also receiving financial support for their care needs. This empowers clients to make the best decisions when receiving home care, benefiting from the expertise and flexibility of their chosen Care Provider Agency.
