Can you get paid to care for a family member in District of Columbia?

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In DC, a relative can be paid to provide personal care through the Medicaid EPD Waiver if the person needing care is enrolled in it. Spouses, parents of minors and other legally responsible relatives cannot be paid as personal care aides, but adult children and parents of adults can. Family aides must complete the same training as any other aide. EPD participants can also self-direct through Services My Way and hire their own workers.

Which District of Columbia programs pay family caregivers?

Elderly and Persons with Physical Disabilities (EPD) Waiver - Personal Care Aide services

• Who can be paid: A family member other than a spouse, the parent of a minor, or another legally responsible relative can be paid as the personal care aide, including parents of adult participants; the relative must meet the same training rules as other aides (including a 75-hour home health aide course) and is hired through an enrolled provider.
• Who qualifies for care: DC residents age 65 and older, or adults 18-64 with a physical disability, who meet nursing facility level of care and the EPD Waiver's Medicaid financial rules.

Services My Way (EPD Waiver participant-directed services)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Workers the participant hires directly, which can include relatives or friends; spouses and legal guardians are reported to be excluded.
• Who qualifies for care: EPD Waiver participants who live in their own home or in the home of a family member or friend and choose to self-direct.

Are there national programs too?

Yes. Veterans may qualify for VA programs that pay or support family caregivers: Veteran Directed Care and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

What should you confirm with the state?

Services My Way hiring rules (who can be hired, slot limits) come partly from secondary sources; confirm with DHCF or your EPD case manager.