The thought of becoming a caregiver to a family member might never cross your mind until a situation with a loved one calls for it. As you might suspect, being a caregiver for a beloved family member can be very rewarding, and serving as a primary caregiver offers an opportunity to make sure your loved one is being cared for properly. 

 

While you might be physically and mentally able for the challenge, you may also be worried about the financial impact on your budget as you serve as a relative’s caregiver. As you face this dilemma, it will be helpful for you to know that it’s possible to become a paid caregiver for a family member. 

 

We’ll review how Medicaid views paid family caregivers in Georgia and how much you can get paid as a relative caregiver in Georgia. 

Does Medicaid Pay for a Caregiver in Atlanta, GA?

The simple answer is yes, Medicaid does pay for caregivers in Atlanta, Georgia. 

 

The state offers waiver programs through the Georgia Medicaid program so that eligible residents of Georgia can receive home health care services for a small cost or no cost at all. 

 

Medi-Cure is a Georgia state-approved provider of at-home care services to adults who are eligible to receive services through the state waiver programs. Medi-Cure is able to provide in-home caregiving services at little or no cost because the state of Georgia reimburses them for their services through a program called the Structured Family Caregiving program (SFC).

 

Does Medicare pay for a caregiver? No, in-home caregiving services are funded by Medicaid, not Medicare (except in a few, isolated, rare instances). 

 

Inforgraphic: How to Become a paid family caregiver in Atlanta, GA

 

 

The Structured Family Caregiving Program (SFC) 

Can you get paid for being a caregiver in Georgia? Yes, you can get paid for providing caregiver services when you take advantage of a new service that’s proving to be beneficial for individuals needing care at home in Georgia – the Structured Family Caregiving program. This program reimburses funds for structured family caregiving which simply means family members caring for other family members at home who can’t take care of themselves. It’s designed to be a win-win solution for individuals needing care and family members who wish to care for them. 

How to Become a Paid Caregiver for a Family Member at Home

Perhaps you’re thinking, “That sounds great! How does the Structured Family Caregiving program work if I want to be a caregiver for a family member and get paid to do it?” 

 

It’s easier than you might think. Medi-Cure will assist you in getting set up with the Structured Family Caregiving program which is provided through the Georgia Department of Human Services, Division of Aging Services. 

 

How much does a family caregiver get paid in Georgia? The rates are set by the Georgia state Medicaid program. Typically, rates are just a few dollars lower per hour than the going market rate. 

 

Here are the qualifications for financial reimbursement according to the Structured Family Caregiving program:

 

  • You must live with the person you are providing care for

  • You must have a biological link to the individual needing care (daughter, son, grandchild, or other relationship through marriage)

  • You must prepare yourself to become an in-home caregiver

  • You may not also work outside the home

  • You may not operate a home business while serving as a caregiver

  • You must assist the individual needing care with activities of daily living (ADL)

  • The program does not extend to spouses of waiver enrollees or legal guardians of enrollees

 

Who Is Eligible to Receive Care?

The requirements for reimbursement for the Structured Family Caregiving Program apply to the following individuals:

 

  • The individual needing care must be covered by the waiver program

  • The senior or disabled person must be eligible for Medicaid

  • The family member who will be providing care must reside with the individual needing care

 

What Tasks Are Eligible for the Stipend When It Comes to Taking Care of a Family Member?

The tasks of a family caregiver are much like the tasks you do to take care of yourself. You will be expected to help with some or all of the following duties:

 

  • Preparing meals

  • Feeding

  • Bathing

  • Dressing

  • Helping with getting in and out of bed

  • Transportation to medical appointments

  • Mobility

  • Other daily activities as needed

 

Most people who serve as family caregivers have a positive and rewarding experience with caregiving. It offers caregivers the opportunity to enjoy special times and create lasting memories of their time spent together. Individuals who need care also benefit from a close and loving relationship. 

 

At Medi-Cure, we’re committed to serving your family by helping you to become a paid caregiver for a treasured family member. If your loved one is Medicaid-eligible, please contact us, and our professionals will be happy to guide you both through the process. Call us today at 770-755-1394 for more information!