1.Program Definition and Services
Respite care services in Indiana are defined as services provided to individuals unable to care for themselves, furnished on a short-term basis due to the absence or need for relief of those people normally providing care. Services include:
- Temporary relief for primary caregivers
- Care for individuals with disabilities or special needs
- Short-term supervision and support
2. Regulations
The program is governed by Indiana Administrative Code 460 IAC 6-5-26 and 405 IAC 5-21.6-10
3. Licensing or Certification
Certification is required to operate as a respite care services provider in Indiana. Providers must be approved by the Division of Disability and Rehabilitative Services
4. Responsible State Agency
The Indiana Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA) is responsible for issuing the required certification
5. Application Process
The application process is conducted online through the FSSA website. Providers must first become certified through the Medicaid Waiver program before applying for CHOICE certification
6. Required Documentation
The following documents are required for application:
- Proof of Medicaid Waiver provider certification
- License from the Indiana State Department of Health
- Form W-9
- Certificate of Insurance for general aggregate liability coverage (minimum $1,000,000)
- Certificate of Insurance for workers' compensation
- Current professional license (if applicable)
7. Timeline for Approval
The exact timeline for approval is not specified in the provided information. However, the process involves multiple steps, including Medicaid Waiver certification, state health department licensing, and CHOICE certification, which may take several weeks to months.
8. Pre-Application Process
Before applying, providers must:
- Obtain Medicaid Waiver program certification
- Secure licensing through the Indiana State Department of Health
9. Pre-Application Training
Providers must attend a CHOICE Information Session via Teams before applying. These sessions are offered twice monthly and provide details on CHOICE funding, billing processes, and other relevant information
10. Additional Notes
- Providers must be at least 21 years old and meet direct care staff qualifications set out in 460 IAC 6-14-5
- Entities providing respite care services must be either a home health agency, an approved adult day service provider, or an entity providing residential services to unrelated individuals
- Providers are required to obtain ten hours per year of ongoing professional development training to maintain authorization
- Approval as a provider does not guarantee service referrals
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