Step-by-Step Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) Application Guide

Quick Reference Guide

Are you looking to get help with care at home but worried about the cost? The Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) program might be exactly what you need! This program helps Albertans get the care they need while the government covers most of the cost.

Who Can Apply?

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you qualify:

• You must live in Alberta and have a valid health care card.
• Your care needs can be safely met at home.
• You need regular, predictable care.
• You’ve been assessed by Alberta Health Services.

Step 1: Getting Started

The first thing you need to do is make a simple phone call to 811. When you call, tell them you’re interested in the CDHCI program. They’ll connect you with your local home care office, and that’s where the journey begins!

Don’t worry if you’re not sure what to say! The people on the other end of the line are there to help you and will guide you through the next steps. They will ask you some basic questions like your name, address, and what kind of help you need.

Step 2: The Assessment Process

After your call, here’s what happens:

• An AHS Case Manager will schedule a visit to your home.
• They’ll talk with you about your needs and daily challenges.
• They’ll determine how many hours of care you qualify for.
• You’ll discuss what types of care you need (personal care, respite, etc.).

The assessment is a really important step because it helps the case manager understand what you need most. You might need help getting dressed, cooking meals, or maybe just some extra company during the day. Whatever your needs are, the case manager will write it all down to make sure you get the right support.

Step 3: Choosing Your Care Provider

Once you’re approved, you get to pick your care provider! This is one of the best parts of the CDHCI program. Here’s what to consider:

• Look for providers approved by Alberta Blue Cross.
• Compare different agencies’ services.
• Ask about their caregiver matching process.
• Discuss their scheduling flexibility.

Choosing a care provider is like picking a new member of your family. It’s important to pick someone that you feel comfortable with. You can ask about their experience, how they choose which caregiver will come to your home, and whether they can be flexible with timing to fit your schedule.

Why Choose Pinnacle Age Well?

At Pinnacle Age Well, we offer a professional health care team that is dedicated to making sure you get the best care possible. Here are some reasons why Pinnacle Age Well stands out:

• Professional Health Care Team: Our caregivers are highly trained and experienced, ensuring you receive the quality care you deserve.
• Consistency in Care: We assign 2 to 3 caregivers per client, so you always see familiar faces. This helps avoid confusion and builds trust between you and your caregivers.
• Punctual and Reliable: Our caregivers come on time and are dedicated to providing the best service to our clients.
• Personalized Care Plans: We create care plans that are just right for your unique needs, making sure you feel comfortable and well taken care of.

Choosing Pinnacle Age Well means you will always have a familiar face providing care, someone who knows you and understands your needs. We make sure that you are comfortable and that you can count on us every time. Our caregivers are not just here to provide care—they’re here to become a part of your support system.

Step 4: Setting Up Your Care

After choosing your provider, they will:

• Create your personalized care plan.
• Match you with consistent caregivers.
• Handle all the paperwork with Alberta Blue Cross.
• Start your services quickly.

Setting up your care is like getting ready for a new school year. You have to make sure you have everything in place, but once it’s all set, everything runs smoothly. Your care provider will take care of all the complicated paperwork, so you don’t have to worry. They will make sure that the right caregiver is coming to help you, and that they know exactly what to do to help you feel your best.

Understanding the Benefits

Why people love this program:

• You don’t pay out of pocket – the agency bills directly to Alberta Blue Cross.
• You get to choose your preferred care provider.
• The care is personalized to your needs.
• You don’t have to handle any complicated paperwork.

One of the best things about the CDHCI program is that you don’t have to worry about money every time you get care. The care provider bills Alberta Blue Cross directly, so you don’t have to pay from your pocket. Plus, because you get to pick your care provider, you can make sure you’re happy with the person who is helping you.

Important Tips for Success

1. Keep Your Documents Ready
   • Alberta Health Care card
   • Government ID
   • Any medical information your case manager might need
   Having all your documents ready will make the whole process faster and easier. Keep them all in one folder so you can find them easily when needed.
2. Ask Questions
   • Don’t be shy about asking your case manager to explain things.
   • Request clear information about approved hours.
   • Understand what services are covered.
   If you don’t understand something, just ask! There is no such thing as a silly question when it comes to your health and care.
3. Stay Organized
   • Keep copies of all paperwork.
   • Write down important phone numbers.
   • Save your case manager’s contact information.
   Staying organized will help you keep track of everything and make sure you know who to call when you need something. Write down important phone numbers and keep them handy!

What Happens Next?

Once everything is set up, your care provider will:

• Start providing the approved services.
• Bill Alberta Blue Cross directly.
• Work with you to adjust care as needed.
• Provide regular updates about your care.

Your care provider will start coming to your home and providing the care you need. They will also make sure to keep you updated on how things are going and make any changes if needed. It’s like having a team who is always ready to help you feel your best.

“The CDHCI program increases the options available to clients to receive home care support services, giving them input into how their care is delivered”

Getting Extra Help

Remember that if you need more hours than what’s approved:

• You can discuss private pay options with your provider.
• Some providers offer additional services.
• You might qualify for other support programs.

If you need extra help beyond what is approved, don’t worry. You can talk to your provider about other options, like paying for extra hours privately or checking if you qualify for other programs. The goal is to make sure you get all the care you need to stay comfortable and happy at home.

This program helps many Albertans stay comfortable in their homes while receiving professional care. The application process might seem big, but taking it step by step makes it manageable. Your chosen care provider will help guide you through the whole process, making sure you get the care you need.

Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Pinnacle Age Well and the CDHCI program are here to support you, and every step you take brings you closer to getting the care you need to live comfortably at home.