Frequently asked questions about Consumer Directed Services
These are the questions we are asked most. If yours is not here, call (314) 809-6655.
Questions and answers
What exactly is Consumer Directed Services?
CDS is a MO HealthNet (Missouri Medicaid) program that lets an adult with a physical disability hire and direct their own personal care attendant instead of accepting whoever an agency sends. You are the employer; a CDS vendor like Communicare Elite handles payroll, program paperwork and Medicaid billing. Read the full overview.
Who qualifies?
Broadly: you are 18 or older, eligible for MO HealthNet, have a physical disability, are able to direct your own care, and are assessed as needing a nursing facility level of care. The Department of Health and Senior Services makes that determination, not us. See the details.
Can a family member be my paid attendant?
Yes — with one exception written into Missouri law. Under RSMo 208.900 a personal care attendant is “a person, other than the consumer’s spouse.” Adult children, parents, siblings, cousins, friends and neighbors are all eligible if they pass background screening. More on family caregivers.
How much does it cost me?
Nothing. The program is funded by MO HealthNet. You do not pay us and you do not pay your attendant directly — we bill Medicaid and pay your attendant as their employer of record.
How many hours will I get?
That is set by the Department of Health and Senior Services after an in-home assessment, based on the tasks you need help with and how long each takes. We cannot promise a number of hours, and you should be cautious of any provider who does.
Who decides what tasks my attendant can do?
Your authorized care plan does. DHSS assesses which activities you need help with and authorizes those specific tasks. Your attendant works within that plan. See commonly covered tasks.
Do I have to find my own attendant?
Most people already have someone in mind — a relative, a friend, a neighbor. If you do not, tell us; we recruit attendants across the St. Louis area and can help you find candidates to interview. The choice stays yours.
What if my attendant is not working out?
You can replace them. You are the employer — you hire and you discharge. Call us and we will manage the payroll transition so there is no gap in your care.
Can I switch to Communicare Elite from another vendor?
Yes, and you do not have to reapply for the program or give up your authorized hours. Here is how the switch works.
Is CDS the same as home health?
No. CDS is non-medical personal care directed by you. Home health is skilled, clinical care ordered by a physician and delivered by licensed staff on the agency’s schedule. Compare the two.
What happens if I go into the hospital?
Tell us and tell your DHSS case manager. Missouri law requires you to notify the department within ten days of a change in your circumstances, including changes in your health or where you live. Your attendant cannot bill for time while you are an inpatient.
Do you serve Illinois?
No. We serve Missouri only. Illinois residents are served by Illinois programs and Illinois providers. See our service area.
Still have a question? Ask a person.
Call (314) 809-6655 for a free consultation, or text (314) 886-5902. We serve St. Louis City, St. Louis County and Missouri communities within about 40 miles of our office.