NC H492

Increases Medicaid Personal Care Services (PCS) from 80 hours to up to 130 hours per month for eligible recipients with degenerative memory conditions like Alzheimer's disease who meet additional safety criteria.

Requires physician attestation that recipients need increased supervision, specialized caregiver training, physical environment modifications, and have documented safety concerns including wandering, aggressive behavior, or fall risks.

Mandates independent assessment by a trained professional (not affiliated with service providers) to determine the number of hours needed and develop a plan of care approved by the Division of Medical Assistance.

Requires the Department of Health and Human Services to reduce PCS rates to fund the additional service hours while remaining within current budget allocations.

Effective upon Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services approval of a State Plan Amendment to be submitted by August 15, 2013, with projected implementation date of July 1, 2013 or as soon thereafter as permitted.