Maintaining independence while needing personal care can be a significant concern for many individuals and their families. The Personal Preference Program (PPP) in New Jersey offers a solution, empowering NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid members to manage their care at home and within their communities. This program, designed with a cares ppp program approach, prioritizes your choices and control over your personal care services.
The New Jersey PPP stands as a testament to self-directed services, a model focused on providing home and community-based support tailored to individual needs. These services are designed to help individuals with personal care requirements live independently. The core principle of self-direction is choice: you decide what services best meet your needs, who provides those services, and when and where you receive them, all within the program’s framework.
For those enrolled in NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and eligible for Personal Care Assistant (PCA) services, the PPP offers a valuable alternative to traditional home health care agencies. It allows you to remain in the comfort of your own home and actively participate in your community.
Understanding Personal Care Assistant (PCA) Services
PCA services under NJ FamilyCare are non-emergency, health-related tasks crucial for your well-being. These encompass assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (iADLs). Examples include:
- Bathing and dressing
- Meal preparation
- Light housekeeping
These services are essential for maintaining your health and comfort at home.
Why Choose the Personal Preference Program?
The PPP is built on the principle of enhanced individual responsibility coupled with greater control and flexibility. By choosing the Personal Preference Program, you gain significant advantages:
- Tailored Services: Select home care services that directly address your specific needs.
- Choice of Worker: Hire individuals you trust, including friends, relatives, or neighbors, to be your care workers.
- Personalized Scheduling: Plan your services around your individual schedule and preferences.
- Increased Independence: Experience greater autonomy and control over your life and care.
Are You Eligible for PPP?
To be eligible for the Personal Preference Program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- NJ FamilyCare Eligibility: You must be eligible for NJ FamilyCare. You can apply through your local County Social Service Agency or apply online.
- PCA Service Approval: You must be approved for Personal Care Assistant Services (PCA) and require these services for a minimum of six months.
- Self-Direction Capability: You must be capable of self-directing your services or have an Authorized Representative (AR) who can manage the program on your behalf.
How to Apply for the Personal Preference Program
If you are currently enrolled in a NJ FamilyCare Managed Care Organization (MCO), such as an HMO or health plan, the application process is straightforward. Contact your MCO to request a PCA assessment for enrollment into the PPP. Here are contact numbers for various MCOs in New Jersey:
| Managed Care Organization | Contact Number |
|---|---|
| Aetna Better Health of New Jersey | 1-855-232-3596 |
| Aetna Assure Premier Plus (D-SNP) | 1-844-362-0934 |
| Fidelis Care (formerly known as WellCare) | 1-855-642-6185 |
| Horizon NJ Health | 1-855-465-4777 |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan | 1-800-645-9409 |
| Wellpoint (formerly known as Amerigroup) | 1-855-661-1996 |
The Role of the Fiscal Intermediary (FI)
Navigating the administrative and financial aspects of being an employer in the PPP can be simplified with the help of a Fiscal Intermediary (FI). The FI provides essential support and Information & Assistance (I&A) services.
FI Supports for You (the Employer):
- Manages employer fees and taxes.
- Processes payments for employer-related taxes and fees.
- Arranges for mandatory Workers’ Compensation insurance.
- Assists in creating a backup care plan.
- Processes payments for approved goods and services within program guidelines.
FI Supports for Your Worker:
- Handles payroll processing for your care workers.
- Offers guidance and resources for finding and hiring suitable workers.
Currently, Public Partnerships LLC (PPL) is the designated Fiscal Intermediary for the New Jersey PPP.
PPL Contact Information:
- Phone (English): 1-844-880-8702
- Phone (Spanish): 1-844-880-8703
- Fax: 1-844-627-6834
- Email: [email protected]
- Website: PPL Program Website
Resources for Current PPP Participants
If you are already participating in the PPP and need further assistance or have questions, detailed contact information is available here.
We Value Your Feedback
Your feedback is important to us. Please share your thoughts and suggestions by emailing the PPP mailbox at [email protected].
Training and Workshops
To enhance your understanding of the program, consider reviewing these resources:
Fiscal Intermediary Transition (FIT) Updates
Stay informed about any transitions to new FI vendors by checking these documents:
Join the FIT Community Workgroup
Participate in monthly meetings held on the first Wednesday of each month to contribute to the FI transition process and shape best practices for self-directed services.
State Program Office Contact
For direct inquiries, you can contact the State Program Office:
NJ Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services
P.O. Box 712
Attention: Personal Preference Program
Trenton, NJ 08625
Telephone: 609-631-2481
Email: [email protected]
This comprehensive guide aims to clarify What Is The Cares Ppp Program in New Jersey, empowering you to take control of your personal care journey through the Personal Preference Program.
