Consumer Directed Services (CDS) in Missouri
Your Care, Your Choice - Get Consumer Directed Services in St. Louis, MO
The best care comes from people you already know and trust. That’s why we offer Consumer Directed Services, which is a program that puts you in charge of your own care by letting you choose your caregiver. This includes family members or close friends. It’s your life, your routine, and your choice. We are just here to help make it all easier.
What are Consumer Directed Services?
Consumer Directed Services (CDS) is a Missouri Medicaid program that allows you to stay in your home while receiving the daily help you need, from someone you trust and would love to have around. You are not assigned a random caregiver. Instead, you get to pick a person who supports you and train them your way, so you can keep your routine just how you like it.
Moreover, CDS is designed for people who need hands-on help but still want to maintain control over how their care is delivered. It’s not suitable for those with memory-related conditions like dementia. However, if you are physically limited and want to stay home, this might be just what you need.
For added flexibility, the Independent Living Waiver and Structured Family Caregiving Waiver are also available through CDS, expanding support options for both families and caregivers.
Benefits of Consumer Directed Services in St. Louis, MO
Home just feels better and we completely understand that. It’s familiar and comforting, and full of things that matter most to you. CDS helps you stay right where you are while still getting the assistance you need.
- You stay independent. Live in your own space while still getting help with things like meals, bathing, medications, and more.
- You don’t have to rely on strangers. With CDS, you choose someone who knows you and understands your needs. You can hire someone you trust.
- No big life changes and no facility schedules. Your care happens on your terms.
- The person you hire will get paid to care for you, which can be a real blessing for family members or friends. This way you get to support the person who takes care of you.
How It Works
Determine Eligibility
You must be Medicaid-eligible and require help with daily living activities.
Choose Your Caregiver
Select a friend, family member (not a spouse or legal guardian), or someone you trust to be your caregiver.
Caregiver Enrollment
We assist your chosen caregiver through the hiring, paperwork, and training process.
Manage Your Care
You supervise your caregiver’s schedule, duties, and care plan with the ongoing support of our agency.
What Kind of Help Can I Receive?
Your caregiver can support you with everyday tasks.
Bathing and grooming
Personal hygiene
Toileting
Dressing
Medication reminders
Getting around the house
Light housekeeping and laundry
Meal preparation and cooking
Grocery shopping
Transportation to appointments or errands
Am I Eligible for CDS?
To join the CDS program, you’ll need to meet a few requirements:
- You’re 18 or older.
- You live in Missouri.
- You have a physical disability or health condition that makes daily tasks difficult.
- You’re able to make decisions and direct your caregiver.
- You qualify for and are enrolled in MO HealthNet (Medicaid).
Who Can I Hire as a Caregiver?
- An adult child who is 18 or older.
- A family member, like a cousin or a sibling.
- A friend, such as a neighbor or a close friend.
- Someone from your community whom you trust to take care of you.
- A former or current caregiver.
- NOT a legal spouse or guardian due to state regulations.
Find Your Perfect Caregiver in St. Louis, MO, through CDS
Here, at Helpful Hands In Home Care, we believe support should feel simple and personal. With CDS, you stay in control and choose someone you trust to care for you. Ready to get started or have questions? We’re just a call away and happy to help you every step of the way.
FAQs about Consumer Directed Services in St. Louis, MO
Can I hire a family member to take care of me?
Yes. With CDS, you can hire a family member, like an adult child, sibling, cousin, and so on, as your caregiver. The only people you can’t hire are your legal spouse or guardian.
Will my caregiver be trained?
You will be the one directing and training your caregiver based on what works best for you. Do not worry, we will support both of you throughout the process and make sure you have the tools to succeed.
What if I am not on Medicaid yet?
No problem. Reach out to us, and we will help guide you through the Medicaid enrollment process so you can get started with CDS as soon as possible.
How long does it take to get approved?
It usually takes around three weeks from the time we submit your application to getting the final approval from the state. Once you’re in, you can start receiving care right away.
Is the CDS service only for older adults?
No. While many CDS participants are seniors, anyone over 18 with a qualifying physical disability may be eligible.
