1. Program Definition and Services
Respite Care Services in New York provide temporary, short-term relief to unpaid primary caregivers of individuals with disabilities, chronic conditions, or age-related challenges.
- In-Home Respite: Care and supervision provided directly within the individual's family home or an uncertified community setting
- Site-Based / Residential Respite: Supervision and overnight or day support provided in a licensed community-based setting, a free-standing respite facility, or an OPWDD-certified residential home
2.Regulations
The program is governed by the following regulations:
- New York Codes, Rules and Regulations, Title 14, Part 635 (14 NYCRR Subpart 635-10)
- New York Codes, Rules and Regulations, Title 14, Part 686 (14 NYCRR Section 686.15)
- New York State Social Services Law and Public Health Law
- The Federal Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver Standards under CMS
- New York State Mental Hygiene Law
3. Licensing or Certification
Providers must obtain an operating certificate or formal provider enrollment approval from the state and follow all Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waiver requirements
4. Responsible State Agency
The Office for People With Developmental Disabilities (OPWDD) is responsible for reviewing applications and certifying respite care providers
5. Application Process
The application process is conducted through the electronic New York Medicaid Portal. Providers must submit forms online to initiate the application process
6. Required Documentation
While specific documentation requirements vary based on the target waiver, providers typically need to submit :
- Proof of compliance with state safety and operational rules
- Agency policies and procedures
7.Staff qualifications and training records
Proof of general and professional liability insurance
8.Timeline for Approval
The exact timeline for approval fluctuates based on agency capacity. Providers should contact their regional office for detailed information on current processing timeframes
9. Pre-Application Process
Prospective providers must complete specific foundation tasks before applying. They must establish their business entity and secure necessary federal identification numbers
10. Pre-Application Training
The state hosts mandatory administrative and compliance training sessions online. Access details are sent to qualified applicants once preliminary paperwork is reviewed
11. Additional Notes
- Providers must ensure that intensive respite settings meet all state accessibility and environmental safety guidelines
- In-Home Respite must be provided directly by the certified agency's employed personnel
- All direct care staff must conduct mandatory background clearances and fingerprinting screenings
- Providers must maintain detailed records of face-to-face services for Medicaid documentation and billing
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