Uncategorized Archives - Atlantic Care Services

Does Florida Pay Parents To Care For A Medically Fragile Child?

December 19, 2024November 21, 2024 by Developer Team

If you are wondering how to get paid as a family caregiver in Florida, the AMFC program offers a valuable opportunity for parents caring for a medically fragile child to receive financial compensation for their essential caregiving role.

As a parent of a medically fragile child, your daily routine revolves around their care—managing medical equipment, scheduling therapies, and ensuring their health needs are met. These responsibilities are so demanding that holding a full-time job can feel impossible. The reality of stepping away from traditional employment to become your child’s primary caregiver often comes with significant financial strain, adding another layer of stress to an already challenging situation.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program (AMFC) offers a solution by allowing parents to become their child’s paid caregiver, easing the financial strain of giving up traditional employment. This approach acknowledges that parents are often the best caregivers for their children, as they already understand their unique needs better than anyone else.

Through the program, parents receive specialized training to ensure they can meet state requirements while continuing to provide the compassionate, personalized care their child deserves. By compensating parents for their vital role, the AMFC program supports the child’s well-being and helps families maintain financial stability.

How to Get Paid as a Family Caregiver in Florida

Florida recognizes the vital role that parents and guardians play in caring for children with complex medical needs. Through the AMFC program, family members can receive payment for providing around-the-clock care to their medically fragile child. This opportunity provides financial relief and ensures children receive care from the people who know them best.

To participate, caregivers must meet specific requirements, including completing state-mandated training. These training sessions cover medication management, CPR certification, hands-on caregiving skills, and more, ensuring caregivers are fully equipped to handle their child’s unique needs.

What Does The Florida Paid Caregiver Program Involve?

The AMFC program requires caregivers to complete a comprehensive credentialing and training process, which includes:

40 hours of theoretical training to build foundational caregiving knowledge.
10 hours of medication management training to ensure safe administration of medications.
36 hours of hands-on training (currently in development) to practice real-life caregiving tasks.
16 hours of skills competency training (also in development) to demonstrate caregiving proficiency.
Passing a Level 2 background check to ensure the safety and well-being of the child.
Meeting Medicaid eligibility requirements for the child to qualify for the program.

Atlantic Care Services provides this training at no cost to participating families, making the program accessible for those who qualify. Once trained and credentialed, parents can become paid caregivers under the program, earning an income while maintaining Medicaid eligibility.

Who Qualifies for the AMFC Program?

Eligibility for the AMFC program depends on specific factors, such as the child’s medical condition and the caregiver’s ability to complete the required training. The child must already be enrolled in Medicaid to qualify for the program. Families interested in the program should consult with Atlantic Care Services to determine their eligibility and begin the credentialing process.

Why Choose the AMFC Program?

For families of medically fragile children, the AMFC program through Atlantic Care Services offers a pathway to financial stability without compromising the quality of care. By empowering parents with training and compensation, the program ensures that children remain in a loving, familiar environment while receiving the specialized support they need.

Take the First Step Toward Becoming a Paid Caregiver

If you care for a medically fragile child and want to learn more about how to get paid as a family caregiver in Florida, now is the time to get started. The Atlantic Care Services team can guide you through every step, from understanding program eligibility to completing state-mandated training.

By becoming a credentialed caregiver, you can provide your child with the specialized care they need while earning an income to support your family. Contact us today to learn more and take the first step toward becoming a paid caregiver for your child.

When Is A Child Considered Medically Fragile?

November 21, 2024October 28, 2024 by Developer Team

Children with special health needs fall into many different categories. Understanding what is considered a medically fragile child is crucial to getting them the care they need.

One such category is “medically fragile,” which is often confused with other complex health conditions. While both terms describe children who need specialized care, a medically fragile child typically has a singular chronic condition that requires continuous monitoring, treatment, or support.

In contrast, a medically complex child may face multiple concurrent conditions that affect various aspects of daily life, necessitating care from numerous specialists.

Medically Fragile vs. Medically Complex

A medically fragile child requires constant access to skilled care, either from a healthcare professional or specially trained staff. These conditions may be persistent or occur frequently, and without immediate medical intervention, interruptions in the child’s necessary technology, support, or services could lead to life-threatening situations.

These conditions differ from those of a medically complex child, who might deal with two or more chronic conditions, such as Down syndrome with epilepsy or premature birth complications paired with feeding difficulties.

While both groups need intensive care, the critical difference is the number of conditions they manage: medically fragile children often cope with one severe health issue, while medically complex children face multiple.

Some examples of medically fragile conditions include cystic fibrosis, muscular dystrophy, or the need for respiratory support due to premature birth. These children often rely on specialized caregivers trained to address their unique health needs, from medication administration to managing feeding tubes or monitoring vital signs.

How the AMFC Program Can Help Parents

Parents of medically fragile children may struggle to balance the demands of care with their everyday responsibilities. That is where the AMFC (Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children) program steps in, offering essential support. Through this program, family members can receive the necessary training to become certified home health aides, ensuring they can provide skilled care at home.

This helps relieve some of the caregiving burden and ensures the child remains in a comfortable, familiar environment. With access to professional resources and guidance, parents can feel confident that their child receives the best care.

By understanding the definition of medically fragile child and exploring the resources available, families can better navigate the complexities of their child’s healthcare and find the support they need through programs like AMFC.

How Families Can Qualify for the AMFC Program

Families with medically fragile children can qualify for the AMFC program if the caregiver and the child meet specific eligibility requirements. To begin, the child must meet the criteria for medically fragile status, which includes having a chronic condition that requires continuous medical care and monitoring.

Additionally, the family must verify Medicaid eligibility, as this is a crucial requirement for participation in the program. It’s important to note that families enrolled in the Florida Kid Care Medicaid program are currently ineligible, although this may change as the program evolves.

Once eligibility is confirmed, parents or caregivers interested in providing care through the AMFC program must complete the necessary state-mandated training. Atlantic Care Services offers this credentialing and training at no cost to families, ensuring they are fully equipped to handle their child’s care at home while meeting state regulations.

This is an incredible opportunity for parents to become certified home health aides for their medically fragile children, helping to relieve the burden of managing external caregivers.

AMFC Training Program Is Now Available!

Although the state has yet to announce the go-live date officially, Atlantic Care Services is proactively preparing to ensure families are credentialed and ready when the program launches. As of August 2024, the state expects the program to be live within a few months.

Here are some frequently asked questions we receive about the AMFC training program:

AMFC Training Program FAQ

Is the training program free?

Yes, the AMFC training program is provided at no cost to families participating in the program through Atlantic Care Services.

How do I access the training?

After determining eligibility, you will receive an email from no-reply@trainual.com with a link to join the training platform. Click the “Join Us!” button in the email to start the training.

What does the training include?

The training consists of 40 hours of theoretical instruction, 10 hours of medication management, and, once developed, 36 hours of hands-on training and 16 hours of skills competency.

Can I complete the training on my phone or tablet?

Most of the training can be accessed on a computer, laptop, phone, or tablet. The hands-on portion of the training is not accessible remotely.

Do I need to complete all of the training?

Yes, to qualify as a caregiver under the AMFC program, you must complete all required training in full before being employed with Atlantic Care Services.

Is there a deadline to complete the training?

While the state has not announced the official start date for the program, it is expected to go live within the next few months. We recommend that the training is completed as soon as possible before the launch.

Will my income from the program affect Medicaid eligibility?

Yes, income earned from the AMFC program will count toward your family’s Medicaid eligibility level, but Atlantic Care Services will guide you through how this may impact your benefits.

Get Started Today!

Ready to get started with the AMFC program? Contact Atlantic Care Services today to learn how we can help you complete the necessary training and become a certified caregiver for your medically fragile child. Let us guide you through every step of the process so you can provide the best care while earning income. Reach out now!

What’s Involved in the AMFC Training Program?

September 30, 2024 by Developer Team

Families that struggle to support themselves financially while caring for their medically fragile family member are turning to the new Florida family home health aide program offered through Atlantic Care Services. Here’s how it works.

The AMFC (Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children) training program walks you through the state-mandated training regulations with ease. We want to ensure your process of getting started is as smooth and easy as possible.

With our custom training now live, interested families can take advantage of comprehensive training at no cost, further enabling them to qualify for the AMFC program.

Overview of the AMFC Training Program

The Florida Family Home Health Aide program consists of a robust training curriculum tailored to meet the needs of caregivers for medically fragile children. Here is what you can expect from the training:

40 Hours of Theoretical Training: This component covers essential theoretical knowledge regarding medical conditions, care techniques, and best practices in caregiving.
10 Hours of Medication Management: Caregivers will receive instruction on the safe and effective administration of medications, ensuring they understand proper protocols and guidelines.
36 Hours of Hands-On Training: This practical component will allow caregivers to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios under supervision.
16 Hours of Skills Competency: Caregivers will demonstrate their skills through hands-on assessments to ensure they are competent in delivering high-quality care.

The training is state-mandated, meeting the standards set by regulatory authorities. We know you already provide excellent care to your child, but completing this training is a prerequisite for participation in the program and employment with Atlantic Care Services.

Important Details for Families

Atlantic Care Services is committed to preparing families for the AMFC program by offering comprehensive training and credentialing. Our proactive approach ensures that family members meet all necessary requirements, equipping them with the skills needed to provide the highest level of care for their children.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that any income earned through the program will count toward your family’s Medicaid eligibility income level. However, at this time, patients enrolled in the Florida Kid Care Medicaid program are not eligible. Atlantic Care Services monitors this situation closely and will update families on any changes.

How to Access the Training

Families will receive an email from no-reply@trainual.com with instructions on how to access the training. Upon receiving this email, click the purple “Join Us!” button to begin your training journey. The Trainual platform works best on a computer or laptop but is also accessible via mobile devices by downloading the Trainual app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the AMFC training program? The AMFC training program helps family members enhance their skills and knowledge in order to care for their medically fragile child or family member as an employee of Atlantic Care Services.

Is there a cost for the training? No, the training is provided at no cost to families.

What is the duration of the training? The training consists of 40 hours of theoretical instruction, 10 hours of medication management, and additional hands-on training and skills competency assessments that are currently being developed.

How will I be notified about the training? Interested and qualifying family members will receive an email with detailed instructions on accessing the training platform.

Can I access the training on my phone? Yes, the training can be accessed on mobile devices by downloading the Trainual app, but using a computer or laptop is recommended for the best experience.

Get Started with the AMFC Program

This program provides an opportunity for family members to become paid caregivers for their medically fragile family member, providing financial support and allowing for more personalized and consistent care. Now that you know a little more about the training requirements, contact us today to get started!

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

September 30, 2024September 3, 2024 by Developer Team

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 Criteria For 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 thorough. It involves a minimum of 85 hours of instruction, including 40 hours of theoretical nursing education, 20 hours of basic nursing skills training, and 16 hours of clinical training conducted under a registered nurse’s (RN) supervision.

Caregivers are required to undergo specific training on HIV/AIDS, with specific hours as determined by the program. They must also be CPR certified and complete 12 hours of annual in-service training. Additionally, caregivers are required to fulfill six hours of state-mandated training and complete an extra four hours focused on administering medications.

Eligibility Criteria For Children

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 Get Started

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.

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

Contact Atlantic Care Services today to learn more about how we can support you and your family. We are committed to helping you navigate the application process, answering your questions, and providing the resources necessary for exceptional care. Your family’s well-being is our top priority, and we look forward to making a positive difference in your child’s life.

What is the Best Care Option for Your Medically Fragile Child?

October 28, 2024August 5, 2024 by Developer Team

Finding the right child care for medically fragile children is a significant decision for any family. The complexity of medical needs and the emotional weight of ensuring the best environment for your child can be overwhelming.

Government programs like Medicaid can be a lifeline, offering free or subsidized complex medical needs child care and therapies based on disability rather than income.

Securing these benefits requires specific diagnoses and the process varies by state. Once your child is on Medicaid, they are also eligible for the new government-sponsored program that we offer at Atlantic Care Services.

Let’s explore the various care options and why the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program might be the best choice for your family.

Understanding Complex Medical Needs Child Care

Complex medical needs child care encompasses a range of services designed to support children with various disabilities and medical conditions. Under the American Disabilities Act, typical daycares must accommodate children with special needs, but this often falls short of what is required. Many families find securing appropriate and adequate child care challenging, if not impossible.

Types of Child Care For Medically Fragile Children

In-Home Care: In-home care provides personalized attention and allows children to stay in a familiar environment. Caregivers with specialized training can handle complex medical needs, making this an ideal choice for children who require constant medical supervision.
Specialized Child Care Centers: These centers offer trained staff and adapted facilities to cater to children with significant medical needs. They often provide access to therapies and specialized equipment but can be more costly.
Inclusive Child Care Programs: Inclusive programs integrate children with and without special needs, promoting socialization and developmental benefits. These settings provide support within a community environment, fostering peer learning and inclusion.
Respite Care: Respite care offers temporary relief for families, giving primary caregivers a break while ensuring their child receives appropriate care. This can range from a few hours to overnight stays or week-long camps.
Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children: This program is optimal for many families. It combines the benefits of professional medical care with the comfort and convenience of home-based services.

Why Choose Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children?

Choosing the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program ensures that your child receives consistent, high-quality care from a trained family member tailored to their medical needs.

This program offers several advantages:

Personalized Care: Home health aides are family members trained to handle various medical needs, from tube feedings to ventilator settings, ensuring your child gets the precise care they require.
Comfort and Familiarity: Receiving care at home from a trained family member means your child stays in a familiar, comfortable environment, which can lower stress and promote better health outcomes.
Reduced Hospital Visits: With skilled care available at home, the frequency of hospital visits can decrease, leading to a more stable and less disruptive routine for your child.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program is designed to offer the best possible care while easing the burden on families. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting your family’s unique needs by ensuring you receive the training necessary to provide your child with the attention and care they deserve.

Why Work with Atlantic Care Services?

At Atlantic Care Services, we understand the unique challenges faced by families with medically fragile children. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing the highest level of training and support through the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program.

By choosing Atlantic Care Services, you gain access to:

Expert Guidance: Our team includes experienced RNs specializing in pediatric care, ensuring you receive top-notch training, support, and guidance.
Personalized Care Plans: We work closely with families to develop customized care plans that address each child’s specific needs.
Reliable Communication: Our dedication to open communication ensures that family caregivers can always reach out to Atlantic Care Services with any questions or concerns about their child’s care.

Contact Us Today

Choosing the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program with Atlantic Care Services means partnering with a dedicated team that prioritizes your child’s health and well-being.

Contact Atlantic Care Services today to learn how this program can benefit your family and provide the peace of mind you need. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for your child.

Our Story

July 22, 2024September 20, 2023 by Kaitlyn Study

A Passion For Helping Others

Our founder and CEO, Jason Coons, has always had a passion for healthcare and helping others. His sister Noell was born with Spina Bifida. Jason saw his sister go through multiple surgeries, receive in-home care, and face many day-to-day challenges with her disability. His sister is now thriving and owns her own company, TheBrideBox.com.

In addition, Jason’s son, Zachary, was born in 2017 with two rare defects, Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) and Omphalocele. Zachary received lifesaving care and surgeries in the NICU at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL, and spent 103 days in the hospital. Zach came home with oxygen and a Gtube and required multiple follow-up surgeries to continue his repair. Because of the great care and love he received, he is a happy and thriving young boy now!

Jason’s experience and success working in the home health industry for six years prior to starting Atlantic Care Services and his personal experiences as a brother and father showed him the way to create a home health company he could be proud of. Jaime Gonzalez, our COO, worked with Jason at his previous home health company. Jaime described Jason as creating an incredibly positive work and team culture. People no longer felt like they had to work but that they wanted to work.

Jason knew that treating caregivers like gold in every way possible and supporting them in both their careers and their personal lives would result in a culture and place where families would want to come to receive care and caregivers would want to stay.

January 31st, 2018, is the day that Jason secured the license for Atlantic Care Services from the state of Florida. The first patient joined on October 2nd, 2019. Ever since then, the company has continued to grow and make a positive impact on the home healthcare community.

We come together every day to think of new ways to keep our caregivers happy and ensure there is no better home health company to work for. Having the best compensation and benefits in the industry is only a part of it! Keep reading to find out more about our benefits, rewards, and recognition programs.

As working parents, it is hard to care for our child and give them the undivided attention they need while providing for the family at the same time. Atlantic Care Services and their staff always puts our child’s best interest first.