Caregivers

What’s Involved In Phase Two Of The AMFC Training Program?

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AMFC training program

Caring for medically fragile children comes with unique challenges, so the Florida Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children, or AMFC training program, is extensive. 

The program has several key phases to prepare family caregivers to provide high-quality care, including theoretical training and hands-on learning. Phase 2 of the AMFC training program focuses on in-person instruction and skills competency—both essential for ensuring caregivers are fully equipped to handle their child’s medical needs.

What Is Phase 2 of the AMFC Training Program?

The second phase of the AMFC training program consists of 30 hours of in-person, hands-on training conducted by a registered nurse (RN). This RN must have at least two years of nursing experience, with at least one of those years dedicated to pediatrics.

The training is personalized and practical. It can take place in the caregiver’s home, either with their own medically fragile child or a pseudopatient, such as a mannequin used in CPR training. The training also includes scenarios involving conditions outside the caregiver’s specific experience, offering a well-rounded education that prepares them for various medical situations.

This comprehensive approach ensures caregivers develop confidence and competence when providing care, even for medical needs their child may not currently have. Its purpose is to enhance each participant’s knowledge and skill set.

What Happens After the Hands-On Training?

Once caregivers complete the 30-hour in-person training, they proceed to the the final step in the AMFC training program. The skills competency portion is a 16-hour evaluation where an internal nurse—often a familiar clinical supervisor—observes the caregiver performing specific tasks.

The skills competency aims to be approachable and friendly. Caregivers will demonstrate their abilities using their child or a pseudopatient, ensuring they feel prepared and supported throughout the process. It is important to note that caregivers must repeat this competency evaluation annually to maintain eligibility.

Atlantic Care Services’ Announcement

We are excited to announce that families are moving forward with the hands-on portion of the program. Here’s the message we share with parents:

“We are thrilled to announce that we are moving into the next phase of implementing the AMFC program! Atlantic Care Services families have completed their application processes, their theoretical training, and we are now moving them onto the 30-hour in-person training with an RN. After this, the last step they will need to complete is a 16-hour skills competency. Within the next few weeks, we are looking forward to our family members working their first shift as part of the AMFC program!

The Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) recently released FAQs that you or your patients’ families may find helpful. They address questions such as who qualifies as a family member, Medicaid eligibility, and more.

Agency for Health Care Administration FAQs

We appreciate your patience, communication, and help while we learn about this new program and work through the implementation process! We look forward to utilizing this program to further support our community and their needs.”

Supporting Families Every Step of the Way

The AMFC training program ensures that family caregivers are well-prepared to care for their medically fragile children. By focusing on theoretical education and hands-on training, the program sets caregivers up for success while offering peace of mind to families. AMFC training program

Contact us today if you have any questions about the AMFC training program or need assistance during this process. Our team is here to guide you every step of the way!

AMFC FAQ

Who is in charge of creating and conducting the required training?

The home health agency develops and provides employee training based on standardized program requirements.

Why must families take training courses that do not apply to their child’s specific medical needs?

The standardized training addresses common conditions and tasks associated with medically fragile children, ensuring all caregivers are well-prepared.

Who is eligible to participate in the training?

Caregivers, family members, and staff employed by the home health agency receive training to support medically fragile children.

Will the training be transferable if I switch to a different home health agency?

It depends on the home health agency. Some may accept prior training documentation, while others may require additional training and validation before employment.

How Does The AMFC Program Impact Insurance?

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does the Florida AMFC program impact insurance

Does the Florida AMFC program impact insurance? Learn about the program and how it affects Medicaid eligibility.

How does the Florida AMFC program impact insurance? The answer to this question is crucial for families navigating Medicaid and insurance eligibility.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children (AMFC) program may have unintended consequences on a family’s Medicaid eligibility. Income earned through this program by a caregiver could be factored into the household’s income when determining Medicaid eligibility for the child or other family members.

As a result, some families may find their Medicaid eligibility impacted by this extra income, potentially disqualifying them from receiving essential healthcare services.

What is the Florida Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children Program?

The Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children Program was established as part of House Bill 391, passed by the Florida Legislature in 2023. This program allows eligible family members to become trained and certified to provide home health aide services to children with medically complex conditions under Medicaid.

Through this program, eligible family members can be reimbursed by Medicaid for caregiving services provided to these children, improving their quality of life and reducing the need for institutional care.

Under the program, family members, such as parents or other close relatives, can be paid to provide essential healthcare services like nursing assistance or daily medical support at home. These services, previously only offered by certified healthcare providers, now allow family caregivers to step in and fill this vital role while receiving compensation.

How Do Families Participate in the AMFC Program?

Families must connect with a Medicaid-approved home health agency, such as Atlantic Care Services, to participate in the Florida Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children program. does the Florida AMFC program impact insurance

The caregiver, typically a parent, legal guardian, or close relative, must meet eligibility criteria and complete an 86-hour training program. This training covers various medical topics, including theoretical nursing education, basic nursing skills, clinical training under the supervision of a registered nurse, CPR certification, and specialized training on HIV/AIDS and medication administration.

Caregivers must be at least 18 years old, able to read and write and pass a background check. Once training is complete, the home health agency employs the caregiver, enabling Medicaid reimbursement for their services.

 The program is not limited to parents—it can include any family member, such as aunts, uncles, grandparents, or siblings, who meet the eligibility and training requirements. Children eligible for the program must be 21 or younger, have a physical, mental, or cognitive impairment, and qualify for Medicaid skilled or respite care services.

Does the AMFC Program Affect Medicaid Eligibility?

Yes, the income earned by family caregivers under the AMFC program can impact Medicaid eligibility. If a caregiver earns compensation for providing health aide services to a medically fragile child, that income will be considered part of the household income for Medicaid purposes.

As a result, families may face income limits that could affect their child’s Medicaid eligibility. In Florida, Medicaid eligibility is based on household income, and exceeding certain thresholds may disqualify the family from receiving Medicaid benefits.

While this issue has been identified by the Agency for Healthcare Administration (AHCA), the agency is aware of the potential conflict and is working on changing the eligibility requirements to address the concerns of families. For now, it’s crucial for caregivers and families to remain vigilant about their household income levels to avoid inadvertently affecting Medicaid eligibility.

Families can refer to the Florida Medicaid Member Portal or consult the Department of Children and Families for further information about income limits and the potential impact on Medicaid eligibility.

What Impact Does This Have on Other Insurance?

Families may also ask does the Florida AMFC program impact insurance other than Medicaid, such as private insurance or employer-sponsored health plans. Generally speaking, Medicaid eligibility is the most directly impacted by the income earned through this program, but families should be aware of their total household income when considering other insurance options.

Updates and Changes to the Program

The AHCA is aware of the concerns surrounding income limits and Medicaid eligibility for families participating in the AMFC program. As such, AHCA is exploring options to modify the program’s requirements, ensuring that families can receive the compensation they need for caregiving without jeopardizing essential Medicaid coverage. However, these changes are still under discussion, and families should continue to stay informed and up to date on any updates regarding the program.

Florida Healthy Kids is not participating in the AMFC program, which could further complicate the eligibility process for families relying on this health insurance coverage.

Stay Informed to Protect Medicaid and Insurance Benefits

The Florida Home Health Aide for Medically Fragile Children program offers vital support for families but may affect Medicaid eligibility due to caregiver income. Families must stay informed and consult with agencies like Atlantic Care Services to understand how this program may impact household income and Medicaid benefits.

If your family is considering participating in the program, contact us today for guidance on protecting your child’s Medicaid and insurance coverage.

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program?

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Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program

Providing care for a medically fragile child can be complicated, not to mention expensive. Here, we answer the question, “Who qualifies for the Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program?” to show you that your family could be eligible.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program, established under House Bill 391, offers a critical support system for families caring for children with significant medical needs.

The initiative seeks to address the healthcare worker shortage by enabling family caregivers to receive training and gainful employment as home health aides. Understanding who qualifies for this program can help families navigate their options and access the support they need.

Eligibility Requirements for Home Health Aide Services Caregivers

Family caregivers must meet specific criteria to qualify for the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program. The primary requirement is that the caregiver be a family member of a medically fragile child. Caregivers must also be at least 18 years old and able to read and write. 

Additionally, they must pass background screening requirements. Once these initial qualifications are met, the caregiver must complete in-home training with an RN and pass a skills competency.

Training Requirements

The training process for family caregivers is comprehensive, ensuring they are fully equipped to provide high-quality care. Caregivers must complete a minimum of 85 hours of training, broken down as follows:

  • 40 hours of theoretical nursing education covering essential caregiving principles, patient safety, and infection control.
  • 20 hours of hands-on nursing skills training, focusing on tasks such as mobility assistance, wound care, and monitoring vital signs.
  • 16 hours of clinical training under the direct supervision of a registered nurse (RN), allowing caregivers to apply their skills in real-life scenarios.

In addition to these core training hours, caregivers must meet specialized education requirements, including:

  • HIV/AIDS training, with specific hours set by the program.
  • CPR certification, which must be maintained through regular renewals.
  • 12 hours of annual in-service training, ensuring caregivers stay up to date on best practices.
  • 6 hours of state-mandated training covering key topics such as patient rights and emergency preparedness.
  • 4 additional hours focused on medication administration, ensuring caregivers can safely assist with prescribed treatments.

For caregivers participating in the Family Home Health Aide Training Program, Phase 2 of the training will include additional coursework, enhanced clinical training and competency evaluations. This phase ensures that caregivers are prepared to handle more complex medical needs and adhere to state regulations.

By meeting these training requirements, caregivers can provide safe, effective care while maintaining compliance with Florida’s home health standards.

Eligibility Criteria For Children

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program

Specific eligibility criteria also apply to the child receiving care. The child must be 21 years old or younger and have an underlying physical, mental, or cognitive impairment that prevents them from safely living independently. 

Furthermore, the child must be eligible for skilled or respite care services under the Medicaid program. These criteria ensure that the program supports children with significant medical needs requiring specialized care at home.

Program Benefits

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program offers numerous benefits to support families and their children. By leveraging this program, families can access essential resources, training, and financial support to enhance their caregiving experience significantly. 

In the following section, we will explore the critical advantages of participating in the program, including how it addresses the challenges faced by families and improves overall care for medically fragile children.

Personalized Care 

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program provides personalized care tailored to each child’s unique needs. By employing family caregivers as aides, the program ensures that children receive specialized attention from individuals familiar with their medical requirements.

Family Support 

The program supports families by offering comprehensive training and guidance to caregivers. This helps alleviate the burden of caregiving and equips family members with the skills needed to provide high-quality care at home.

Financial Assistance 

The program addresses financial challenges by offering a competitive hourly rate for family caregivers, subsidized by Medicaid. This financial support helps ease the economic strain associated with caregiving while providing families with the necessary resources to manage their child’s complex needs.

How to Apply for Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children

If you believe your family could benefit from the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program, Atlantic Care Services is here to help. Start by contacting us to begin the application process. 

We will assist you with verifying Medicaid eligibility, providing the necessary documentation of your child’s medical condition, and enrolling in the required training program. Our dedicated team will guide you through each step, ensuring you meet all criteria and receive the support you need.

AMFC Qualification FAQ

What factors determine if my child qualifies for the program?
Eligibility is based on medical necessity, as determined by a physician. The child must require hands-on assistance with daily living activities, medication administration, or other skilled care due to a chronic or complex medical condition.

What paperwork is required to determine eligibility?
Families must provide a physician’s certification of medical necessity, recent medical records, a medication list, and completed program application forms. If applicable, proof of Medicaid eligibility may also be required.

What are the medical criteria for eligibility?
Children must have a diagnosed medical condition that requires skilled care at home. A physician must confirm that home health aide services are medically necessary to support the child’s daily needs.

Does my child need to have Medicaid to qualify?
Medicaid is often required for program eligibility, but some children may qualify through specific waiver programs or alternative funding sources. Families should check with the home health agency to explore their options.

Who is responsible for training caregivers and family members?
The home health agency designs and conducts the training based on standardized program guidelines. Training covers essential caregiving skills, medication administration, and emergency response.

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program? Contact Us To Discuss Your Eligibility

We are dedicated to helping you navigate the eligibility process for our programs, ensuring you fully understand the requirements and have the resources needed to complete the application process with ease. Our team is here to guide you step-by-step, answering all your questions and providing clear explanations to help you determine your family’s eligibility.

Your child’s well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you in accessing the care and services they deserve. Contact us today, and let us assist you in making this process as simple and stress-free as possible.

Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children

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pediatric home health aide program

Caring for a medically fragile child can be challenging, both emotionally and financially. The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program offers families support by allowing parents to become a pediatric home health aide, providing stability and essential caregiving skills.

We are proud to be one of the first in Florida to offer this program. We partner with families to help care for their medically fragile children at home.

When you’re caring for a medically fragile child, you’re not just managing their complex medical needs. You’re navigating a world of regular medical interventions, therapies, and careful health management. It’s a journey marked by a constant need for support and understanding.

At Atlantic Care Services, we don’t just see these challenges; we live them with you. We’re here to provide the support and services your family needs, tailored to your unique situation.

Caring For Medically Fragile Children

House Bill 391 created the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program. This program aims to solve the serious shortage of healthcare workers trained to offer comprehensive care for medically fragile children.

This program helps parents and family members. It offers training and job opportunities to support them while ensuring they can provide the specialized care the child requires.

Filling The Gaps in Healthcare

According to a 2023 analysis by the Florida Legislature, approximately 5,000 medically fragile children and their families are eligible to benefit from this program, highlighting its significant impact on our community’s healthcare landscape.

At Atlantic Care Services, we are proud to support this initiative. We are ready to help families get the care and resources they need.

Benefits Of The Program pediatric home health aide program

The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program is designed for pediatric home health care with families in mind, offering a holistic approach. Imagine the peace of mind of earning an income while caring for your child at home. The program offers financial stability and thorough training. You will learn basic caregiving skills and how to handle medical emergencies helping you confidently meet your child’s unique needs from the comfort of your home.

Our highly skilled team of professionals is always available by phone to provide the support and guidance you need whenever you need it.

How To Get Started

Getting started with the Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program is straightforward. Contact us, and we’ll help determine your eligibility for this program according to the state’s requirements. Eligibility requirements include:

  • The caregiver must be at least 18 years old.
  • The child receiving care must be 21 years old or younger.
  • The child must have an underlying physical, mental, or cognitive impairment that requires skilled care or respite care services under the Medicaid program.
  • The caregiver must pass a level 2 background screening.
  • Medicaid or other eligible insurance coverage is required to reimburse for services.

Once approved, you’ll begin a comprehensive training journey with a 40-hour online course and 36 hours of in-home training supervised by a registered pediatric nurse. This training equips you with essential caregiving skills and prepares you to provide specialized care to your child.

Following the training, you’ll undergo a 16-hour skilled competency assessment to ensure you’re fully prepared and confident in your caregiving abilities.

Throughout every step of this journey, our dedicated team is here to support you, offering guidance and assistance to ensure your success in caring for your medically fragile child.

AMFC FAQ

Q: Who qualifies to receive payment through the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children (AMFC) program?
A: Parents, legal guardians, and certain family members who meet eligibility criteria, complete the required training, and are employed by a Medicaid-approved home health agency can receive payment for caring for their medically fragile child.

Q: Is training required for family members to participate in the AMFC program?
A: Yes, family members must complete 40 hours of theoretical instruction, in-home training with an RN, and pass a skills competency assessment to be eligible for employment through a home health agency.

Q: How do I get started with the AMFC program?
A: Families interested in participating must contact a Medicaid-approved home health agency, such as Atlantic Care Services, to begin the application and training process.

Q: Can multiple family members participate in the program and provide care?
A: Yes, multiple family members can be trained and employed through the program, as long as they meet all eligibility and training requirements.

Why Choose Atlantic Care Services?

At Atlantic Care Services, we understand the unique challenges you face as a parent of a medically fragile child. Our team includes experienced registered nurses specializing in pediatric care, ensuring you receive the highest level of support and guidance.

We’re more than just a home care service—we’re your partner in providing the best care possible for your child. By joining the program, you’ll find a job and a community of support and empowerment. This program offers more than financial stability; it enhances your child’s quality of life through specialized care and attention.

Contact us today to learn how the pediatric home health aide program and our care team can support your family and provide quality care for your child. Take the first step toward a brighter future.

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