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Managing Your Program

Managing YOUR Program

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MassHealth requires that your PCM agency assess your ability to manage the PCA Program independently, and review this assessment periodically. The areas include

  • Basic understanding of the PCA Program
  • Identifying personal care needs and routine
  • Recruiting and screening
  • Hiring, training and scheduling
  • Resolving employee problems
  • Managing timesheets and record-keeping

If the PCM agency determines you need assistance to manage the PCA Program, you will be required to find a surrogate.

WHAT DOES THAT MEAN?

Consumer must be identified who will assist with tasks related to managing PCA Program. Your surrogate could be your spouse, parent, other family member, friend, or neighbor. Your surrogate cannot be your PCA. If you need a surrogate but don’t know of anybody, your PCM agency can help you find a surrogate. Surrogates are not paid.

IF I CAN’T IDENTIFY A SURROGATE, HOW DO I FIND SOMEONE WHO WILL ASSIST ME?

Your skills trainer will contact our volunteer Surrogates coordinator. Our volunteer Surrogate coordinator is actively seeking qualified individuals and creating a network of people who are available to assist consumers with managing their PCA Program. Your skills trainer may also refer you to another agency such as DMR, DMH, and Project Aim to obtain a surrogate

If you and the PCM agency cannot find a surrogate for you, you will not be able to participate in the PCA Program.