Family Care (FC) is a vital program designed to provide non-technical attendant care services to individuals facing functional limitations due to age, disabilities, or medical conditions. This program focuses on assisting with activities of daily living, ensuring a better quality of life for those in need. Administered by attendants, Family Care services are distinct in that they do not require professional or specialized medical training, emphasizing compassionate and practical support within the home and community.
What Does the Family Care Program Offer?
The core of the Family Care Program lies in providing assistance with what are known as “activities of daily living” (ADLs). These encompass essential everyday tasks that individuals may find challenging to perform independently. These activities can include:
- Personal Hygiene: Assistance with bathing, dressing, grooming, and toileting.
- Mobility: Support with moving around, transferring from bed to chair, and walking.
- Meal Preparation and Eating: Help with planning, preparing, and consuming meals.
- Household Tasks: Light housekeeping, laundry, and essential errands to maintain a safe and comfortable living environment.
It’s important to understand that Family Care is a non-skilled service. This means attendants provide personal care and support rather than medical or therapeutic interventions. The focus is on enhancing the individual’s independence and well-being within their home setting.
Who is Eligible for Family Care Services?
The Family Care program is available to eligible individuals who experience functional limitations due to:
- Age-related conditions: Seniors who need assistance to maintain their independence at home.
- Disabilities: Individuals with physical or cognitive disabilities that impact their ability to perform daily tasks.
- Medical Problems: Those recovering from illness or managing chronic health conditions that require ongoing support with ADLs.
Eligibility criteria are set to ensure that services reach those who genuinely require assistance to live safely and comfortably. Specific requirements and application processes can be accessed through the relevant state or local health and human services agencies.
For Providers: How to Contract for Family Care Services
For agencies interested in becoming Family Care providers, it’s essential to understand the contracting process. In Texas, for example, providers must be licensed as a Home and Community Support Services Agency (HCSSA) and have a contract with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to offer Family Care services.
Licensing Requirements
Prospective providers must obtain HCSSA licensure under one of these categories: Licensed Home Health Services, Licensed and Certified Home Health Services, or Personal Assistance Services. Detailed rules regarding minimum standards for HCSSA licensure are outlined in Title 26, Chapter 558 of the Texas Administrative Code. Further information on licensing requirements can be found on the HCSSA site.
Enrollment and Contracting Process
To be eligible to contract and receive reimbursement for Family Care services, provider agencies must meet specific criteria. These eligibility requirements are detailed in Title 40 of the Texas Administrative Code. Family Care operates under a contract that also includes Primary Home Care (PHC) and Community Attendant Services (CAS). Agencies contracting for PHC/FC/CAS must agree to serve individuals in all three programs.
For comprehensive details about the HHSC provider enrollment process and requirements, please refer to the information available on the HHSC provider enrollment page.
Agencies seeking to provide Community Services programs, including Family Care, must complete an application. To ensure a smooth application process, utilize Form 5830, Contract Application Packet Checklist, State Office Enrolled to verify all necessary documents are submitted.
Completed applications and required forms can be submitted via:
- Email: [email protected]
- Fax: 512-206-3979
- Regular Mail: Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management, Mail Code W-357, P.O. Box 149030, Austin, Texas 78714-9030
- Overnight/Express Delivery: Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management, Mail Code W-357, 909 West 45th Street, Austin, Texas 78751
For any questions regarding the enrollment process, please contact Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management at 512-438-3550.
Program Orientation
Upon contract award, new PHC/FC/CAS contractors are required to complete a program orientation as per 40 Texas Administrative Code Section 49.302(b). This orientation ensures contractors are fully informed about program requirements and best practices. Regional Enrollment and Monitoring staff will contact contractors to schedule this essential orientation.
Staying Informed About Family Care Program Updates
To stay current with any changes or updates to the Family Care program, it is crucial to subscribe to official email updates from HHSC. Contractors are mandated to subscribe to receive these updates via GovDelivery, as outlined in 40 Texas Administrative Code Section 49.302(g). You can subscribe to these updates through the GovDelivery subscription page.
Conclusion
The Family Care program provides essential support to individuals needing assistance with daily living, enhancing their independence and quality of life. For families and individuals seeking care, and for agencies looking to provide these valuable services, understanding the program’s scope, eligibility, and operational guidelines is paramount. By connecting individuals with compassionate care, the Family Care program plays a critical role in community health and well-being.
Note: This program is funded fully or partially by the federal government. The information on this page is for informational purposes and does not necessarily represent the official views of the U.S. government.
