Case management services are essential components of the CLASS program and CFC Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation (PAS/HAB) within CLASS. Individuals enrolled in these programs select a Case Management Agency (CMA) in their local catchment area, with the option to transfer to another CMA as needed.

CMAs provide ongoing case management services, including:
– Maintaining Medicaid eligibility assistance.
– Handling enrollment tasks.
– Conducting service planning.
– Providing technical support for Consumer Directed Services (CDS) participants completing Form 3596, PAS/Habilitation Plan – CLASS/DBMD/CFC.
– Monitoring service delivery.
– Safeguarding individual rights.
– Intervening during crises.
– Coordinating CLASS and non-CLASS services through person-centered planning techniques.

These services support the CLASS program’s objectives of community integration, preventing institutionalization, and fostering independent living skills.

Video Link: https://youtu.be/hWnKwZAFczc

In the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) program, individuals have the option to choose Consumer Directed Services (CDS) for self-directing certain program services. These services include CFC Personal Assistance Services/Habilitation (PAS/HAB), CLASS transportation – habilitation, in and out-of-home respite, nursing, employment assistance, supported employment, cognitive rehabilitation therapy, physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech/language pathology.

When opting for the CDS option, individuals are required to use Financial Management Services (FMS), provided by a Financial Management Services Agency (FMSA) of their choice. FMS includes payroll processing, ensuring compliance with employment taxes and workers’ compensation, and budget oversight. Individuals can also access support consultation to receive additional training and assistance beyond FMS requirements, aiding them in fulfilling employer responsibilities under the CDS option.

Support consultation is provided by qualified advisors and helps CDS employers with tasks like hiring, training, and dismissing attendants. This service is budgeted within the individual’s CDS budget and is not listed separately on their Individual Plan of Care (IPC).

The choice between CDS and Agency Option (where services are delivered by a CLASS Direct Services Agency) is made by the individual or their legally authorized representative (LAR) during service planning. The CLASS case manager offers the CDS option at enrollment, annually, and upon request. Individuals can switch between service delivery options at any time, though a 90-day waiting period is required if switching back to CDS after opting for the Agency Option.

Overall, these options provide flexibility and autonomy to individuals receiving services through the CLASS program, supporting their preferences and needs in service delivery.

Video Link: https://youtu.be/I3w1iN8X2AY

Medicare and Medicaid are two separate, government-run programs. They are operated and funded by different parts of the government and primarily serve different groups.

• Medicare is a federal program that provides health coverage if you are 65+ or under 65 and have a disability, no matter your income.
• Medicaid is a state and federal program that provides health coverage if you have a very low income.
• If you are eligible for both Medicare and Medicaid (dually eligible), you can have both. They will work together to provide you with health coverage and lower your costs.

Also know that while Medicare and Medicaid are both health insurance programs administered by the government, there are differences in covered services and cost-sharing. Make sure to call 1-800-MEDICARE or contact your local Medicaid office to learn more about Medicare and Medicaid costs and coverage, especially if you are a dual-eligible.

Video Link: https://youtu.be/xyB-jD0wC0I