Understanding In-Home Support Services

In the state of Colorado, some pediatric Medicaid recipients may qualify for in-home support services through the IHSS program. IHSS is a unique program that allows parents, relatives, or family friends to be paid to complete skilled care that might normally be completed by a licensed healthcare professional. IHSS is a self-directed model of care where the patient/guardian is empowered to direct or manage the attendants that provide the patient’s care in the comfort of their own home.

How do I qualify to be an IHSS Attendant for my child or family member?

  • Unlike the parent CNA program, you do not need to become a CNA to provide care under this model. All for Kids Home Health will complete any necessary training for the IHSS Attendant.
  • The pediatric patient must be qualified to receive Medicaid under the Children’s Home and Community Based Services Waiver (CHCBS). If the child is not under this waiver program, they are not eligible for IHSS services.

What is the CHCBS waiver program?

The Children’s Home and Community-Based Services Waiver (CHCBS) is available for children with significant medical needs and who are at risk for institutional care in an acute hospital or skilled nursing facility. The child must meet the following criteria to access services under this program:

  • The child must need long-term support services at a level comparable to services typically provided in a skilled nursing facility and/or an acute hospital
  • The child must meet the Social Security Administration (SSA) definition of disability
  • The child must meet the financial criteria for CHCBS eligibility.
  • The child’s income must be less than three times the current Federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) limit per month.
  • Due to the parent’s income and/or resources, the child would not otherwise be eligible for Colorado Medicaid benefits.

How do I get started?

  • It is EASY! It all starts with a call to All for Kids Home Health. We will support you throughout the process of becoming your child’s paid caregiver.
  • A case management agency will determine eligibility for the CHCBS waiver. Once your child is qualified under the CHCBS waiver, All for Kids Home Health will complete an in-home visit to complete an assessment and to complete any necessary training.
  • Colorado Medicaid will review the assessment and provide final authorization for services. Once authorization is received, you are able to start working and earning money to care for your loved one.