In Home Supportive Services (IHSS) is a crucial program in California that provides assistance to eligible individuals, enabling them to remain safely in their homes. This guide will provide comprehensive information about the program, including eligibility requirements, application process, and service authorizations.
Understanding In Home Supportive Services (IHSS)
The IHSS program offers a vital alternative to out-of-home care for aged, blind, and disabled individuals who meet specific criteria. By providing in-home assistance, IHSS helps preserve independence and dignity, allowing recipients to maintain a familiar and comfortable living environment.
Who is Eligible for In Home Supportive Services?
To qualify for IHSS in California, you must meet the following requirements:
- California Residency: You must be a resident of California.
- Medi-Cal Eligibility: You must be determined eligible for Medi-Cal benefits.
- Residence Requirement: You must reside in your own home or a chosen abode. Acute care hospitals, long-term care facilities, and licensed community care facilities are not considered eligible residences.
- Health Care Certification: You must submit a completed Health Care Certification form (SOC 873).
How Does the IHSS Program Work?
The process of obtaining IHSS involves several key steps:
- In-Home Assessment: A county social worker will conduct an in-home interview to assess your needs and determine your eligibility. They will evaluate your ability to perform daily tasks and determine the types and hours of services you require. This assessment will consider information from you, family, friends, physicians, or other healthcare professionals.
- Health Care Certification: A completed Health Care Certification form must be submitted to the county before services can be authorized.
- Notification of Eligibility: You will receive notification regarding your IHSS application status. If approved, you will be informed about the authorized services and the monthly hours allocated. If denied, you will receive an explanation for the denial.
- Hiring a Provider: If approved, you are responsible for hiring, training, supervising, and, if necessary, terminating your individual provider. You are considered the employer of your IHSS provider. Alternatively, you may choose a provider from a county-contracted agency or a county homemaker, if available in your county.
- Payment Process: IHSS payments are issued by the State. The hourly rate varies by county due to union negotiations. If applicable, the state will withhold taxes for disability insurance and Social Security from the provider’s payment.
IHSS Needs Assessments: Determining Your Requirements
Needs assessments are conducted during initial intake and annual reassessments. You can request a reassessment at any time if your needs change. Social workers utilize the Functional Index Rankings, Annotated Assessment Criteria, and Hourly Task Guidelines (HTGs) to evaluate your needs accurately. Ongoing monitoring and frequent contact ensure that your needs are consistently met.
IHSS Service Authorizations: What Services Can You Receive?
Service authorizations are determined during the comprehensive needs assessment. This assessment reviews your medical history, medications, emergency contacts, physician information, living situation, functional abilities, mental health, and potential need for referrals to other services. The social worker documents all service needs and justifications within the case narrative.
How to Apply for In Home Supportive Services
To apply for IHSS, download and complete the application form (SOC 295) and submit it to your county IHSS office. You can find the application and a list of county offices on the California Department of Social Services website. Translated applications are available in Armenian, Chinese, and Spanish.
