Virginia Regulatory Town Hall
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Department of Medical Assistance Services
 
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Board of Medical Assistance Services
 
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3/28/23  12:08 am
Commenter: M. Arias

Public Comment - Oppose new regulations -- Keep Consumer Direct/Pay parents
 
Regarding new regulations for Virginia Medicaid waivers
I have copy and pasted the letter below because I fully support what is being said. My son is 13 total care since Appendix K started my husband took on to take care of our son so I can do the many things I need to do as a parent and PT work I do. Do you realize the how much of the stress this has freed me? It gives you a peace of mind that is priceless. We had aides that didn't show up, call out to many times, will not help change his diapers, stolen items even get locked out of the house that has caused me to have PTSD every time we had to interview people. Please keep and parents as paid care givers, keep it consumer direct do not make it harder for the parents by the proposed changes. 

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed new regulations for Virginia Medicaid waivers. As you are aware, for years, the families of disabled Virginians have been paid to take full-time care of their loved ones. However, under the proposed regulations, these caregivers would be required to be employees of a licensed homecare agency. I believe this change would create an undue burden on the caregivers and their families.

As a society, we have a moral obligation to ensure that our most vulnerable citizens receive the care they need. For many disabled Virginians, that care comes from their families. These caregivers have a unique understanding of their loved ones' needs and are often the best equipped to provide the necessary care. By requiring them to become employees of a licensed homecare agency, we are taking away their independence and ability to care for their loved ones in the way they see fit.

Furthermore, this change would create a financial burden on the families of disabled Virginians. Caregiving is often a full-time job, and many families rely on the income they receive from Medicaid to make ends meet. By forcing them to become employees of a licensed homecare agency, they may lose their income, leaving them unable to support themselves and their loved ones.

I urge you to reconsider these proposed regulations and find a solution that does not harm the families of disabled Virginians. Instead, we should be supporting them and ensuring that they have the resources they need to provide the best possible care for their loved ones.

Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

M. Arias 

CommentID: 214244