How to Apply for Agency with Choice in Arizona
Agency with Choice (AWC) is a self-directed program in Arizona that allows families and individuals with disabilities to hire their own support staff while still receiving assistance from the state. This program gives individuals with disabilities more control over their service options, while also ensuring that they receive the services they need.
What is Agency With Choice?
Agency with Choice is a model of service delivery that is available for individuals with developmental disabilities in Arizona. It’s a system that allows individuals and their families to have more control over the types of services they receive, who provides these services, and when these services are delivered.
The Agency with Choice model is facilitated by an agency that works in partnership with the individual and their family. The agency takes on the employer responsibilities such as payroll, taxes, and workers’ compensation, while the individual and their family are involved in the hiring, training, and scheduling of staff.
This model is designed to empower individuals with developmental disabilities and their families by giving them more choice and control over their services. It’s based on the idea that people should have the right to direct their own services, within the parameters set by the state.
To implement Agency with Choice, one must be eligible for services through the Arizona Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD). The DDD will provide a support coordinator who will help the individual and their family navigate the system, choose services, and select an agency.
Overall, Agency with Choice is about promoting independence, self-determination, and quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities in Arizona.
Please note that more specific information can be obtained from Arizona’s Division of Developmental Disabilities or a similar local organization.
If you are interested in applying for the Agency with Choice program in Arizona, here are the steps you need to take:
Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility
To be eligible for Agency with Choice in Arizona, you must meet certain criteria. You need to have the following:
- physical or intellectual disability that limits your ability to perform daily activities.
- You must also be eligible for Medicaid in the state of Arizona.
- ALTCS member
If you meet these requirements, you may be eligible for Agency with Choice.
Step 2: Find an Agency With Choice Provider
Once you determine that you are eligible for Agency with Choice, you need to find a provider agency to work with. FreedomCare is an AWC provider agency that can help you with the hiring process and with managing your own care and support staff. our goal is to get you the care you need, with the freedom to choose who provides it. We help our members choose their own services and caregiver while we take care of the rest.
Step 3: Contact the AWC Provider
Once you have found an Agency With Choice provider that you are interested in working with, you need to contact them to start the application process. You can call the provider or submit an online inquiry form to get started.
During this initial contact, representatives from the provider will ask you some basic questions to determine your service needs and whether they can provide the services you require. They will also explain the Agency With Choice program in more detail and answer any questions you may have.
Step 4: Schedule an Assessment
If the AWC provider determines that you are eligible for the program, they will schedule an assessment. During the assessment, a representative from the provider will come to your home to assess your needs. They will evaluate your physical and cognitive abilities, as well as your living situation. This assessment helps the provider determine the level of service and support you require.
Step 5: Self Direct your Individual Support Plan
After the assessment, the AWC provider will work with you to develop an Individual Support Plan (ISP). The ISP outlines the level of support services that you require and the types of tasks your support staff will assist you with.
The ISP is developed with your input, so it reflects your preferences and needs. You can decide on the number of hours of personal care that you require and what tasks you need assistance with.
Step 6: Hire Support Staff
Once the ISP is in place, you can start hiring support staff. The AWC provider will assist you with the hiring process, including conducting background checks on employees and helping you draft job descriptions.
You can hire a family member or friend to be your caregiver. Don’t worry about payroll. We take care of that.
Step 7: Manage Your Support Staff
Once you have hired your support staff, the Agency With Choice provider will help you manage them. They will provide you with resources for ongoing support and training. They will also help you with any issues that arise, including managing conflicts or transitioning to new agency support staff.
It is important to communicate regularly with your support staff and to provide feedback on their performance. This can help ensure that you receive the highest quality service and care possible.
Benefits of using FreedomCare
- hire a friend and family member
- self directed
- competitive pay rate for caregivers
- choose your services
- receive personal care
Conclusion
Agency with Choice is a program that can provide individuals with disabilities more control over their care while ensuring that they receive the services they need. If you are interested in applying for the program, follow the steps outlined above. Remember to research Agency With Choice providers carefully and to communicate regularly with your support staff to ensure that you receive the best care possible.
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