So, You Wanna Get Paid to be a Superhero for Your Autistic Kid? (Yes, It's Possible in NY!)
Let's face it, raising an autistic kid is a full-time gig. They're your own personal hurricane of awesomeness, but hurricanes can be messy, require constant attention, and let's be honest, sometimes leave you feeling like you need a cape (and maybe a therapist). But hey, what if you could get paid to be that superhero? In New York State, with a little program called CDPAP, you might just be able to!
But Wait, There's More! (The not-so-superhero-y details)
Now, before you picture yourself rolling in dough like Scrooge McDuck with a room full of toy cars, there are a few things to know:
- Age Matters: This program is for adult children with autism (over 21) who qualify for Medicaid.
- You Gotta Be Medicaid-y: Yeah, CDPAP is a Medicaid program, so you'll need to be enrolled in that to participate.
- Be the Boss (of Caregiving): CDPAP lets your child choose their caregiver, and guess who might be the top contender? You! But you'll need to meet some program requirements and be willing to take on the caregiving duties.
So, How Do I Become a Paid Superhero Caregiver?
Here's the not-so-secret secret: we can't give all the nitty-gritty details here. Every state runs their programs a little differently. But fear not, intrepid caregiver! Here's your first mission:
- Assemble at the New York State Department of Health Headquarters! (Okay, maybe just their website). Check out the CDPAP program details https://www.health.ny.gov/health_care/medicaid/program/longterm/cdpap.htm to see if it's a good fit for your family.
- Next Stop: Local Medicaid Office! These folks can answer your specific questions and guide you through the application process.
Remember: This might take some time and paperwork wrangling, but hey, getting paid to be your kid's superhero is worth a little effort, right?
Frequently Asked Questions for Aspiring Paid-Parent-Superheroes:
How to find out if my child qualifies for Medicaid?
Contact your local Medicaid office. They'll be happy to answer your questions and help you determine eligibility.
How much does a caregiver get paid through CDPAP?
The exact amount varies depending on your child's needs and the care plan established. Contact the New York State Department of Health for more details.
Can I still work another job while being a CDPAP caregiver?
It depends on the specific needs of your child and the hours required for their care plan. Discuss this with your caseworker during the application process.
What if my child is under 21?
Unfortunately, CDPAP isn't an option for children under 21. However, there might be other programs or resources available. Talk to your child's doctor or a local social services agency.
Are there any training requirements to be a CDPAP caregiver?
Depending on your child's needs, there might be some basic training required. The CDPAP program will provide details on any necessary training during the application process.
