AHCA Updates Policies to Launch Family Home Health Aide Services Program
AHCA Updates Policies to Launch Family Home Health Aide Services Program
On November 26, 2024, the Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) announced updates to the Private Duty Nursing and Family Home Health Aide Services Coverage Policy and the Home Health Visit Services Coverage Policy under Rule 59G-4.261 and Rule 59G-4.130, Florida Administrative Code (F.A.C.), respectively. These updates, effective October 1, 2024, support the implementation of the new Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program as directed by the Florida Legislature.
Family Home Health Aide (FHHA) Services Overview
The new program allows eligible family members to be reimbursed for providing home health aide services to medically fragile children. This initiative, aligned with legislative directives from HB 391, aims to expand care options for families while ensuring high-quality care.
Family members eligible for this program include:
- Related providers
- Legal guardians
- Caretaker relatives
To qualify, family members must:
- Be employed by a Florida Medicaid-participating home health agency.
- Complete required training as specified in Rule 59A-8.0099.
- Deliver services that are medically necessary and prior authorized when required, as outlined in Rule 59G-4.261.
Important Considerations for Families
Eligible family members should be aware that additional income earned through this program may impact their Medicaid eligibility and other benefits. Home health agencies need to educate participating families about these potential impacts and provide an eligibility information flyer, available on AHCA’s website. Families must sign an attestation confirming they have received and understood this information.
Reporting Requirements for Home Health Agencies
Home health agencies employing family members under this program must report the following information to AHCA at the beginning of each month, starting November 1, 2024:
- The name of each participating family member.
- Their DCF MyACCESS case number.
Additional Resources
- Visit the Adopted Rules webpage for full details on the updated coverage policies
- Access the Family Home Health Aide and Private Duty Nursing Services frequently asked questions for additional information here.
For further assistance, contact the Florida Medicaid Provider Helpline at (877) 254-1055.