CT SB00897

Effective July 1, 2019, establishes that Medicaid beneficiaries enrolled in Community First Choice or home and community-based services programs may choose any qualified caregiver to provide services.

Defines "qualified caregiver" as any licensed or registered home health aide, homemaker-companion, personal care attendant, or nurse's aide who is an enrolled Medicaid provider or employed by one, has passed required background checks, is available, and provides specific services under the beneficiary's plan of care.

Allows beneficiaries to select caregivers regardless of whether the caregiver is employed by an agency that contracts with the Department of Social Services.

Requires the Commissioner of Social Services to seek federal approval, if necessary, to amend the Medicaid state plan or waiver programs to implement the caregiver selection provisions.