Can you get paid to care for a family member in South Carolina?

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In South Carolina, parents, relatives or guardians of a child on the Medically Complex Children waiver can be paid hourly through self-directed Children's Attendant Care. Adults on the Community Choices waiver can self-direct Attendant Care and hire their own attendant. Ask your case manager which family members can be hired for adults.

Which South Carolina programs pay family caregivers?

Medically Complex Children (MCC) Waiver - Children's Attendant Care (self-directed)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Eligible parents, relatives or guardians, paid hourly to deliver extraordinary hands-on care to the child.
• Who qualifies for care: Children age 1 to 21 enrolled in the Medically Complex Children waiver (serious illness expected to last at least 12 months, hospital level of care) who need help with at least two of seven activities of daily living.

Community Choices Waiver - Attendant Care (self-directed)

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Self-directed attendants hired by the participant. Which family members can be paid was not confirmed in the manual.
• Who qualifies for care: Adults 65 and older, and adults 18-64 with physical disabilities, who meet nursing facility level of care.

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?

For adult Attendant Care, the rules on hiring a spouse or other relative were not found in the official manual. Ask SCDHHS Community Long Term Care at (888) 971-1637.