Where Does Self-Directed Care Fit in Home Health Care?

I recently read an article on Home Health Care News regarding self-directed care. Patrick Filbin, the author of the article, talks about the pros and cons of self-directed care. 
 
Pros typically include the following:

• Those in need of care can choose their own caregiver (i.e., friend, family member)

 
Cons include the following:

• No back-up caregiver if the chosen one does not show up
• Larger possibility of fraud occurring (i.e., caregiver does not show up, but is still being paid by Medicaid)

 
Afterwards, I spoke with Twin Lights Home Case Manager Donna Chalmers regarding her thoughts on where self-directed care fits in home health care.
 
“One of the biggest challenges that families face when taking an aide private is finding a relief aide or someone to take over when the original aide needs time off,” says Donna. 
 
Donna explained that with self-directed care, she believes it would be difficult for families to manage their caregiver, even if the person were someone they knew well.
 
Donna continued, “Unforeseen circumstances happen all the time. Your mother is relying on you for care, but maybe you got a flat tire on your way; now your mother is without care. What do you do?”
 
Donna went on to clarify that when utilizing an agency, for your home care needs, it will always be the agency’s responsibility to find coverage if an aide is unable to come to work. There is more security when using an outside resource. Filbin explains that “self-directed care can sometimes lack the resources provided through a traditional setup.”
 
“Just because you need care, doesn’t mean you should lose your autonomy or dignity,” explains Donna.
 
A study conducted at the University of Kansas, found that the self-directed care model focuses on self-determination and choosing care to suit individual needs. 
 
Donna pointed out that there is “a science” to matching aides with clients. “It is vital to match the personalities of clients and aides well,” says Donna. “The goal is for the client to have as much control as possible and not to make them feel like they don’t have a say in what’s going on.”
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Filbin believes that self-directed care is going to continue to grow in home health care. However, it is believed that state regulations will need to become stricter to prevent fraud. Donna sheds light on how it may be comforting to family members to have a caregiver that they know well but warns about burn-out and coverage.
 
You can check out the rest of the blog posts on our website and contact us if you have any questions about home care for your loved ones.
 
Written by Madison Chalmers
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