1. Program Definition and Services Provided 

Respite care in Montana is designed to provide temporary relief to primary caregivers who care for individuals of any age or ability. Services can include in-home care, companionship, outings, and temporary overnight care.The Montana Lifespan Respite Program offers vouchers that caregivers can use to hire respite providers through agencies or privately. 

2. Regulations 

Key regulations governing respite care in Montana include: 

• Mont. Admin. r. 37.50.511: This regulation pertains to foster care support services, including respite care allowances for children in licensed foster homes 

• General respite services are not specifically regulated under a single state rule but are guided by the Montana Lifespan Respite Program's policies and procedures. 

3. Licensing or Certification 

To operate as a respite care provider in Montana, you typically do not need a specific license for respite services themselves. However, if you are providing care through an agency, the agency may need to meet certain standards or certifications. For instance, if providing care in a facility or as part of a larger healthcare service, other licenses might be required. Respite providers must be at least 18 years old and cannot live in the same household as the care recipient 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Montana Department of Public Health & Human Services (DPHHS) is involved in overseeing various aspects of healthcare services, including respite care. However, the specific agency responsible for licensing or certifying respite care providers is not clearly defined, as respite care often operates under broader caregiver support programs 

5. Application Process 

The application process for becoming a respite provider typically involves registering with the Montana Lifespan Respite Program or working through an agency that employs respite providers. Applications for the Lifespan Respite Voucher Program can be completed online at  www.respite.mt.gov  or by contacting Aging & Disability Resource Centers 

6. Required Documentation 

For caregivers applying for respite vouchers: 

• Completed application form 

• Caregiver Strain Index 

• Information about the care recipient and primary caregiver 

• Proof of address if the caregiver does not live with the care recipient 

• For providers, documentation may include: 

• Proof of age (at least 18 years old) 

• Background check results (if required by the employing agency) 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The approval process for respite vouchers typically involves a phone call within five working days to inform the caregiver of approval and explain the voucher process. Once approved, caregivers have 90 days to use the respite services 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-license application process for respite care providers. However, agencies employing respite providers may have their own requirements. 

9. Pre-Application Training 

While there is no mandated pre-application training for respite providers, training may be offered by agencies or as part of ongoing professional development. The Montana Lifespan Respite Coalition plans to recruit and train respite providers in the future 

10. Additional Notes 

• Respite care is crucial for reducing caregiver stress and maintaining family well-being. 

• Providers must not reside in the same household as the care recipient. 

• Funding for respite services can vary, with some programs offering reimbursement directly to caregivers