Family Home Health Aid For Medically Fragile Children (AMFC)
The Florida Family Health Aid for Medically Fragile Children (AMFC) program, established under House Bill 391 in 2023, aims to empower family caregivers to provide specialized care for their medically fragile children. The program offers training and employment opportunities, allowing caregivers to become certified Home Health Aides (HHAs) and receive compensation for their services.
Current Status:
As of October of 2024, the program is active; however, implementation challenges persist, particularly concerning the impact of caregiver compensation on Medicaid eligibility. Many families have found that the income earned through the program can affect their Medicaid benefits, making participation difficult without jeopardizing essential healthcare coverage.
Training Requirements:
To qualify as an HHA under this program, caregivers must:
- Be employed by a licensed home health agency.
- Be 18 years or older.
- Complete an approved training program consisting of at least 86 hours, including theoretical instruction, skills training, and clinical practice. (An additional 10 hours of medication administration training is also required if meds are to be given)
- Successfully pass the required background screening.
The training program is designed to equip caregivers with the necessary skills to provide high-quality care to their children.
Compensation Details:
The program establishes a Medicaid reimbursement rate of $25 per hour for home health agencies employing HHAs for medically fragile children, with a utilization cap of no more than 8 hours per day. It’s important to note that this rate refers to the reimbursement to the agency; the actual pay rate for family caregivers is determined by the employing agency and may vary.
Implementation Challenges:
Despite the program’s activation, issues related to Medicaid eligibility and income limits have hindered widespread participation. Families are advised to consult with their home health agencies and the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration (AHCA) to understand how program participation may affect their specific circumstances.
Next Steps:
Families interested in the program should:
- Understand the Training Process: Familiarize yourself with the training requirements and schedule to ensure you can commit to the program.
- Assess Financial Implications: Carefully consider how the compensation may impact your family’s Medicaid eligibility and overall financial situation.
- Contact Us: Fill out the contact form below for more information.
For the most current information and guidance, consult the Florida Agency for Health Care Administration.