Understanding the Difference Between CDPAP and NHTD Programs in New York is essential when choosing the right care option for your elderly loved one. Both programs offer valuable alternatives to traditional nursing home care, but they differ significantly in terms of services, structure, and eligibility requirements. With so many options available, finding the most suitable care program can feel overwhelming.
In this blog, we break down the key differences between the CDPAP (Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program) and the NHTD (Nursing Home Transition and Diversion) Waiver Program to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re prioritizing flexibility, independence, or specialized services, this guide will help you choose the best care solution for your aging family member in New York.
What is CDPAP?
CDPAP is a Medicaid care service program in New York State. It is a consumer-controlled service where Medicaid-eligible individuals are granted the authority to manage their home care services. In this program, participants decide their care while maintaining freedom. Individuals can hire their caregivers, including friends and family members.
It has a flexible scheduling program, and participants can personalize their scheduling and adjust caregivers’ working hours to match their daily routines and preferences. The scope of services in the CDPAP program is notably broad, as it allows caregivers to perform a wide range of tasks, including medical and non-medical responsibilities.
What Is the NHTD Program?
NHTD is a Medicaid-funded program designed to assist individuals with physical disabilities across all 62 counties in New York State. This NHTD waiver program is tailored for disabled individuals to receive long-term care services within their homes without admitting to a nursing home.
The NHTD service includes personalized planning and service coordination, home and community support services, assistance for daily living activities, assistive technology, Environmental Modifications, Community Integration Counseling, Independent Living Skills Training, Respite Services, Transportation Services, Nutritional Counseling, and Structured Day Programs.
CDPAP vs NHTD: What’s the Key Difference?
CDPAP and NHTD are both Medicaid-funded initiatives in New York State for supporting individuals seeking long-term care Medicaid options. Let’s see the key difference between CDPAP and NHTD:
Caregiver Selection
In the CDPAP, participants can choose, hire, and direct their caregiver from their relatives, neighbors, or friends. But in the NHTD waiver program, participants can avail their service only from licensed providers coordinated through a Service Coordinator.
Services Offered
CDPAP offers assistance with daily living activities and skilled nursing tasks directed by the participants. NHTD offers comprehensive services, including personal care, home improvements, assistive technology, community integration counseling, and more.
Eligibility Criteria
For CDPAP, a participant who requires home care services should be capable of directing their care or have a designated representative. In NHTD, those aged 18 or older than 65 who require a nursing home level of care, and can live safely in the community with support, can apply for the NHTD program.
Eligibility Requirements for Both Programs
Eligibility requirements for the CDPAP and NHTD programs vary in different aspects. Here are the requirements you need to fill out to be eligible for both programs:
CDPAP Eligibility Requirements
To receive CDPAP service, you must be a United States resident and enrolled in the medicaid program in your state. Your medical condition should be stable to require assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs). You must be capable enough to direct your care or have a designated representative. New York Independent Assessor (NYIA) will conduct you to undergo a community health assessment to determine your eligibility.
NHTD Waiver Program Eligibility Requirements
The NHTD waiver program aims at nursing home transition and diversion. The NHTD program’s first criterion is to be a United States citizen and be at least 18 years old. You need to be eligible for the medicaid program and require a nursing home level of care. You must require at least one waiver service to remain at home or transition from a nursing facility.
Types of Services Covered
The CDPAP and NHTD services cover their services in these specific areas-
CDPAP Services
CDPAP will allow the participant to hire and manage their caregivers, including certain family members and friends. The CDPAP service will cover –
Personal Care Assistance: The caregiver will help with daily activities such as dressing, bathing, and grooming.
Skilled Nursing Tasks: Caregivers will assist with medical tasks like administering medications, wound care, and other health-related services.
Flexible Scheduling: Participants can set their care schedules based on individual needs.
Caregiver Choice: Participants are free to choose caregivers, including family members.
NHTD Waiver Program Services
The NHTD service aims to prevent institutionalization by providing necessary support services to individuals. The NHTD waiver program will cover-
Service Coordination: Management and development of individualized service plans.
Home and Community Support Services: Personal care and daily activities assistance.
Assistive Technology: Taking help of devices to aid in daily functioning.
Transportation Services: Transportation facility to travel to medical and non-medical appointments.
Can You Enroll in Both CDPAP and NHTD?
In New York State, you can not enroll for both the CDPAP and NHTD programs. The New York State Department of Health says individuals cannot simultaneously enroll in multiple Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers.
Certain eligibility criteria and rules exist to enroll in a home health care program in New York State. You can check the health care program’s criteria and see which program suits you.
If you are enrolled in health care programs and want to switch, you must disenroll from your current service program. For a smooth transition, consult a Medicaid planner or a Service Coordinator.
Which Program Is Right for You or Your Loved One?
Which program is right for you or your loved one can be determined by which program is the most beneficial for your or your loved one’s health. CDPAP empowers self-direction care. It is the best program for individuals capable of directing their care and who prefer to hire and manage their caregivers, including family members.
The NHTD Waiver Program is a comprehensive Community-Based support. This program is best for individuals who need to transition from nursing homes or are at risk of institutionalization and need a comprehensive suite of services to live independently in the community.
Now, if you want a self-directed program, you can go for the CDPAP program, and if you want to transition from a nursing home to your community, you should choose the NHTD program for you or your loved one.
Why Choose DHCare for CDPAP Support in NY
Among many care home care agencies in New York, DHcare is a reliable partner offering patients and personal assistants comprehensive assistance throughout the CDPAP process.
DHCare has expertise in CDPAP enrollment and navigation, ensuring that patients and their chosen caregivers understand each care program step, including personalized support, helping to determine eligibility, complete necessary documentation, and liaise with relevant agencies.
It also does a seamless transition amid statewide changes, assisting clients in navigating the new system and ensuring continuity of care.
DHCare prioritizes your well-being, offering expertise and compassion every step of the way. Hence, choosing DHcare for CDPAP support in New York means receiving consistent and quality care for all.
Conclusion
The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) and the Nursing Home Transition and Diversion (NHTD) Waiver Program in New York aim to support individuals with long-term care Medicaid options.
However, they operate the service to meet different needs and preferences. Understanding the distinctions between these programs is very important for making wise decisions about long-term care options in New York.
FAQs
Can I switch between programs?
You can switch between programs by disenrolling yourself from the current program, then applying for a new one.
Does NHTD allow family caregivers?
No, NHTD would rather allow professional service providers than family members as caregivers. The CDPAP may be more suitable for individuals who want family caregivers.
What’s the average wait time for each?
The average wait times can vary based on several factors. Depending on factors like the applicant’s preparedness, availability of service coordinators, and regional demand, the entire process can take approximately 2 to 4 months.
