Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in Arizona 


1. Program Definition and Services 

Personal Assistance Services (PAS) in Arizona are non-medical services that allow individuals with targeted disabilities to perform basic human activities of daily living. Services include: 

  • Assistance with eating, removing and putting on clothing, and using the restroom 
  • Help with home activities such as bathing, dressing, cooking, and remembering things 
  • Support for community activities like shopping and getting around 
  • Assistance with work activities such as reading, sign-language interpretation, and lifting or reaching 

 

2. Regulations 

PAS is governed by Section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and 29 C.F.R. § 1614.203(d)(5). 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

No specific licensing or certification requirements are mentioned for PAS providers in Arizona. 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), specifically the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), oversees PAS programs

 

5. Application Process 

Individuals can apply for PAS through the Arizona Long-Term Care System (ALTCS) by contacting the ALTCS office at (888) 621-6880 for an initial eligibility screening. 

 

6. Required Documentation 

While specific documentation requirements are not listed, applicants may need to provide: 

  • Proof of disability 
  • Documentation of eligibility for ALTCS services 
  • Medical records demonstrating the need for assistance with daily living activities 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

There is no specific information about the timeline for approval of PAS. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no explicit mention of a pre-application process. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While specific pre-application training is not mentioned, caregivers may need to complete certain training requirements, including CPR and First Aid certification. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • PAS can be provided through agency-based care or self-directed care options. 
  • The Self-Directed Attendant Care (SDAC) option allows individuals to hire their own personal care assistants. 
  • Family members can become paid caregivers for their relatives under certain programs. 
  • PAS providers must be able to perform tasks that the individual would be able to do themselves if not for their disability. 
  • The Arizona National Guard has specific procedures for processing requests for PAS for its employees. 

 

To get started, click the link to request portal access