Becoming a paid caregiver for a family member in Oregon can be a rewarding and fulfilling experience, but it can also be a complex process. Here are some steps to take if you are interested in becoming a paid caregiver for a family member in Oregon. We will both go over the traditional way as well as the much easier and higher paying option of partnering with a in home care agency such as Dwell Care:
Are you caring for an elderly or disabled family member in Oregon? The Oregon Independent Choices Program (ICP) might be able to help you! This program offers monthly cash payments to Medicaid recipients, giving them the flexibility to manage their own care and choose their care providers instead of relying on state-managed care services.
Through ICP, you have the power to employ friends, family members, or neighbors as paid caregivers, including adult children and even spouses. If you’re not able to act as an employer, you can hire a third-party organization or legal guardian to perform those services on your behalf.
The goal of the program is to prevent premature or unnecessary institutionalization of elderly or disabled individuals. If you’re willing and able to live at home, and not in a skilled nursing or assisted living residence, then you may be eligible for the program.
The Traditional Route (Longer process, lower hourly rate)
- Research the options: There are several programs in Oregon that provide financial assistance for family caregivers, including the Oregon Caregiver Support Program, the In-Home Care program, and the Community First Choice program. Research these programs to determine which one is the best fit for your situation.
- Meet the eligibility requirements: Each program has its own set of eligibility requirements, so it is important to make sure that you and your family member meet the criteria for the program you are interested in. Some of the common requirements include being a primary caregiver for a family member who is elderly or has a disability, and meeting certain income guidelines.
- Gather required documents: To apply for financial assistance, you will need to provide certain documents, such as proof of income, proof of residence, and proof of your family member’s disability or medical condition. Make sure you have all the necessary documents before you begin the application process.
- Apply for the program: Once you have determined which program is the best fit for your situation and have gathered all the required documents, you can begin the application process. The application process can vary depending on the program, so be sure to follow the instructions carefully.
- Apply with the state and wait for approval
- Meet with state case manager.
- Complete the necessary training: Some programs may require that you complete training before you can begin providing care. This training may cover topics such as patient care, safety, and ethical considerations.
- Get started: Once you have been approved for the program and completed any necessary training, you can begin providing care for your family member. Keep in mind that the rules and requirements for these programs may change over time, so it is important to stay informed and comply with any updates.
The Home Care agency route (Quicker start, Higher hourly rate)
We can help expedite the process and take out the guesswork and waiting that normally comes with this. Here is how Dwell Care can help:
Working for an in-home care agency in Oregon while providing care for your family member can be challenging, but it is possible in some cases. Here are the steps you can take:
- Contact Dwell Care for someone to briefly and clearly describe the process to help.
- Submit an application: As simple as getting texted a link to a quick application to start the background check process and indicate that you are interested in providing care for your family member.
- Attend an interview/orientation: Attend an interview with the agency to discuss your qualifications, experience, and interest in working with your family member.
- Get hired: If you are hired by the agency, you will be assigned to provide care for your family member.
- Start getting paid weekly and make more than the typical state rate. Seriously Dwell Care pays top dollar for its caregivers. Contact us to find out more
Additionally, you can easily work for an agency if you are also employed by the state for care. You may be required to complete additional training, and you must disclose that you are providing care for a family member to both the state and the agency. It is important to note that working for an in-home care agency while providing care for your family member may not be the best option for everyone. But most families can benefit at least having an agency involved in partial care of the family member. It is important to consider the potential conflicts of interest and the impact it may have on your relationship with your family member. It may be beneficial to explore other options for care, such as hiring a caregiver who is not a family member or seeking assistance from community resources.
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