1. NAME OF PROGRAM: Community Alternatives Program for Disabled Adults (CAP/DA)

2. PURPOSE OF PROGRAM: This program grew out of a desire to offer home care as an alternative to persons 18 and older to remain in their own home rather than be placed into a nursing home. CAP/DA can provide: in-home aide services, home mobility aids including wheelchair ramps, non-skid surfaces and widening of doorways; telephone emergency alert, adult day health care, medical supplies, institutional respite, pillboxes, home delivered meals, and nutritional supplements taken by mouth such as Ensure, Boost, etc.

3. APPLICATION PROCEDURES: Application for CAP/DA services is made with the Cabarrus County Department of Social Services through the Adult Service Intake unit. Applications may be made by phone for individuals who currently have adult Medicaid coverage. Anyone who does not already have adult Medicaid coverage will need to apply in person to complete a Medicaid application and make a request for CAP/DA services. If unable to come to the agency, a representative may apply on the applicant's behalf.

4. ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS: The eligibility requirements include:

1. The individual must need the level of care provided by a nursing home and desire to remain in his own home. A physician completes the required medical form (FL-2) to document the need for nursing home level of care. EDS, a contract agency for the Division of Medical Assistance, determines if the individual meets the criteria for nursing home care.
2. The individual must be eligible for full Medicaid benefits (blue card) with or without a deductible.
3. The individual must have his health, safety and well-being assured while remaining in his home.
4. The cost of services provided cannot exceed the Division of Medical Assistance established cost limits.

5. OTHER PROGRAM DETAILS: The other program details include:

1. CAP/DA exists to supplement rather than replace the formal and informal services and support already available to an individual. The program's goal is to enable individuals to remain in their own homes or to return to their homes from nursing facilities and live as independently as possible. CAP/DA serves persons living in the Cabarrus County area only.
2. Since CAP/DA is a long term care service, Medicaid files a claim against the estate of a CAP/DA client to recover expenses paid by Medicaid. Estate recovery is waived if there is a spouse or dependents who continue to live on the property, the total assets in the estate are less than $5,000, Medicaid charges are less than $3,000, or in cases of hardship.

6. DATE OF INFORMATION: May 1, 2001