Structured Family Caregiving (SFC) is a program designed to provide financial assistance and support services to family members of individuals living with disabilities or chronic health conditions. This program aims to help these individuals remain in their homes and communities, rather than being placed in institutional settings. In Georgia, the SFC program is administered by the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD).
In this article, we will discuss who is eligible for the SFC program and the steps to apply for it in Georgia.
Who is Eligible for Structured Family Caregiving in Georgia?
To be eligible to qualify for the SFC program in Georgia, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Georgia resident
- Be at least 18 years old
- Have a documented intellectual or developmental disability, or a chronic health condition that requires daily support and supervision
- Be eligible for Medicaid or be enrolled in a Medicaid Waiver program, such as the Comprehensive Supports Waiver Program (COMP) or the New Options Waiver Program (NOW)
- Require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and/or instrumental activities of daily living (IADLs)
- Be able to live safely in a family home with appropriate supports and supervision
- Have an identified and willing caregiver who is not the individual’s spouse or legal guardian, and who resides in the same household
It’s important to note that eligibility for the SFC program is determined on a case-by-case basis, considering the individual’s unique needs and circumstances.
Steps to Apply for Structured Family Caregiving in Georgia
Applying for the SFC program in Georgia involves several steps, which are outlined below:
Step 1: Determine your eligibility
Before you begin the application process, it’s essential to determine whether you or your loved one is eligible for the SFC program. Review the eligibility criteria listed above and consult with your healthcare provider or case manager to assess your personal care and situation.
Step 2: Contact your regional DBHDD office
To initiate the application process, contact your regional Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) office. You can find the contact information for your regional office on the DBHDD website. The regional office will provide you with information on the SFC program and the necessary steps to apply.
Step 3: Complete a comprehensive assessment
A comprehensive assessment is required to determine your eligibility for the SFC program and identify the appropriate level of care and support needed. This assessment is typically conducted by a DBHDD-approved assessor and may include evaluations of your physical, emotional, social, and cognitive functioning.
Step 4: Develop an Individual Service Plan (ISP)
Once the comprehensive assessment is complete, an Individual Service Plan (ISP) must be developed to outline the specific services and supports that will be provided through the SFC program. The ISP is created in collaboration with the individual, their family, the caregiver, and other members of the support team. The plan should address the individual’s unique needs and preferences, while also considering the caregiver’s capacity to provide support.
Step 5: Identify a qualified caregiver
Identifying a suitable caregiver is a crucial component of the SFC program. The caregiver must be at least 18 years old, reside in the same household as the individual, and if applying to structured family caregiver, be willing and able to provide the necessary care and supervision. Caregivers cannot be the individual’s spouse or legal guardian.
It’s essential to select a caregiver who is compatible with the individual’s needs and preferences. The caregiver should also be adequately trained and prepared to handle the responsibilities associated with caring for someone with a disability or chronic health condition.
Step 6: Complete caregiver training
Before providing care through the SFC program, the identified primary caregiver must complete a state-approved training program. This training covers topics such as emergency preparedness, medication administration, and person-centered care. The training ensures that the caregiver is equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective care to the individual.
Step 7: Submit your application
Once the comprehensive assessment, ISP, and caregiver training are complete, you can submit your application for the SFC program to your regional DBHDD office. The application should include all relevant documentation, such as the completed assessment, ISP, and proof of caregiver training.
Step 8: Await approval
After submitting your application, wait for the regional DBHDD office to review it and make a determination regarding your eligibility for the SFC program. This process may take several weeks or longer, depending on the complexity of your case and the availability of resources.
If your application is approved, you will receive a notice outlining the specific services and supports that will be provided through the SFC program. If your application is denied, you can appeal the agency’s decision by following the instructions outlined in the denial notice.
Conclusion
The Structured Family Caregiving program in Georgia offers valuable support and financial assistance to families of the elderly and individuals living with disabilities or chronic health conditions. By understanding the eligibility criteria and following the steps outlined above, you can navigate the application process and access the resources needed to help you or your loved one live a more independent and fulfilling life.
Remember, the key to a successful application is thorough preparation and collaboration with your healthcare providers, case manager, family member and other support team members. With their guidance and expertise, you can successfully apply for the SFC program and improve the quality of life for you or your loved one.