Can you get paid to care for a family member in New Mexico?

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In New Mexico, Turquoise Care members who qualify for the Community Benefit can get personal care through an agency or through self-direction, where they choose and employ their own workers. The state says a family member may be able to provide personal care under either option. A care coordinator from the member's health plan helps set up services.

Which New Mexico programs pay family caregivers?

Turquoise Care Self-Directed Community Benefit (SDCB) - Self-Directed Personal Care

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Workers the member chooses and employs (or employs through another qualified employer of record). The state says a family member may be able to provide this service.
• Who qualifies for care: Turquoise Care (Medicaid managed care) members who qualify for the Community Benefit and choose self-direction with a support broker.

Turquoise Care Agency-Based Community Benefit - Personal Care (consumer delegated or consumer directed model)

• Who can be paid: Personal care workers through an agency contracted with the member's health plan. The state says a family member may be able to provide this service.
• Who qualifies for care: Turquoise Care members who qualify for the Community Benefit and need help with daily activities.

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?

Which family members can be paid (for example spouses or parents of minors) was not spelled out. Ask your Turquoise Care coordinator or the ADRC (1-800-432-2080).