The Attendant Care Program is designed to provide crucial financial support to individuals facing severe chronic or permanent physical disabilities. This program empowers these individuals to manage their own care by offering reimbursement for attendant care services. This support enables them to choose their preferred service providers and direct their care in environments that best suit their needs, whether it’s at home, school, work, or within the wider community.
Who is Eligible for the Attendant Care Program?
The Attendant Care Program is specifically for adults aged 18 to 64 who are living with significant chronic or permanent physical disabilities. To be considered eligible, applicants must satisfy one of the following criteria, demonstrating their engagement in various aspects of life and community:
- Active Employment or Self-Employment: Individuals who are employed in competitive work settings or are self-employed and receive compensation are eligible. This highlights the program’s support for those who are actively participating in the workforce.
- Seeking Employment: Those who are actively searching for employment opportunities also qualify. This provision ensures that individuals striving for economic independence can receive the necessary support.
- Pursuing Education or Apprenticeship: Enrollment in a post-secondary institution, higher education program, or apprenticeship training program makes individuals eligible. This underscores the program’s commitment to supporting educational and vocational pursuits.
- Transitioning from Nursing Facilities: Residents of nursing facilities or similar institutions who are seeking to transition back into community living are eligible. The program aids in facilitating a smoother transition to more independent living arrangements.
- At Risk of Nursing Home Placement: Individuals certified by their physician as being at risk of nursing home placement if they do not receive attendant care services in their community can also qualify. This preventative measure aims to support individuals in maintaining their independence at home and within their communities, avoiding institutionalization.
Applying for the Attendant Care Program: A Step-by-Step Guide
The application process for the Attendant Care Program in Maryland is streamlined through the OneStop portal, a centralized online platform for various state licenses, permits, and applications. Here’s how to navigate the application:
Step 1: Register for a OneStop Account
The first step for any interested applicant is to create a OneStop account. Visit the OneStop portal and begin the registration process. You will be required to provide your first and last name, along with a valid email address that you can verify. This email address will be crucial for all future communications regarding your application.
Step 2: Access the Maryland Department of Disabilities Section
Once your OneStop account is successfully created, return to the homepage and locate and select “Maryland Department of Disabilities.” This section of the portal is dedicated to programs and services offered by the Maryland Department of Disabilities, including the Attendant Care Program.
Step 3: Complete the Initial Application
Within the Maryland Department of Disabilities section, you will find a short application form for the Attendant Care Program. Complete this initial application accurately and thoroughly. This step is essential for placing your name on the registry for the ACP program, indicating your interest and initiating the formal application process.
Step 4: Await Further Communication
Due to program capacity and waiting lists, placement on the registry does not guarantee immediate enrollment. As space becomes available on the waiting list, you will receive an email containing a link to the full application. It is important to regularly check the email address you used for OneStop registration for this notification.
Step 5: Complete the Full Application
Once you receive the email with the link to the full application, promptly complete and submit it. This comprehensive application will require detailed information to determine your eligibility and needs for the Attendant Care Program.
By following these steps and utilizing the OneStop portal, eligible individuals can effectively apply for the Attendant Care Program and take a significant step towards receiving the financial assistance needed to manage their attendant care services and enhance their independence.
