If you rely on the Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) in New York, you may have heard about some big changes coming soon. Starting in March 2025, CDPAP consumers and their personal assistants (PAs) will need to transition to a new system with Public Partnership LLC (PPL), the statewide fiscal intermediary. We understand that these changes can feel overwhelming, especially if you’ve been comfortable with the current system.
We’re here to help you navigate this transition so you’re fully prepared before the deadline. Here’s what you need to know, step by step.
What Is CDPAP and Why Does It Matter?
The Consumer Directed Personal Assistance Program (CDPAP) is a Medicaid program that helps people with disabilities, chronic illnesses, or other long-term health conditions get the care they need at home. Instead of using agency-provided caregivers, CDPAP lets you hire your own personal assistants (PAs): whether that’s a family member, friend, or someone else you trust.
The program gives you more control over your care, letting you choose who helps you and how your care is provided. A fiscal intermediary (FI) helps manage the paperwork, pays your personal assistants, and keeps track of hours.
Now, all CDPAP consumers in New York will need to transition to a new fiscal intermediary: Public Partnership LLC (PPL).
Why Is This Change Happening?
The New York State Department of Health has decided that starting March 2025, PPL will be the only fiscal intermediary for CDPAP. They’ve been working with this program for over 25 years and have experience in 21 states. PPL specializes in consumer-directed services and is dedicated to making sure everything runs smoothly for people who rely on CDPAP.
While this change aims to make the system more efficient, it does mean that all CDPAP consumers and their personal assistants need to complete the transition to PPL. This can feel like a lot to handle, but don’t worry—we’ll guide you through it.
What Does This Change Mean for You?
Deadline: March 28, 2025
The biggest thing you need to know is the March 28, 2025 deadline. By this date, both you (the consumer) and all of your personal assistants (PAs) must be registered with PPL. If you don’t meet the deadline, your services could be interrupted.
This may sound stressful, but the good news is you don’t have to do it all at once. There are multiple ways to register, and it can take time, so it’s better to start now rather than waiting until the last minute.
Steps to Register
Here’s how the process works:
- You need to register with PPL. You’ll complete the registration process yourself, either online, by phone, or in person.
- Your personal assistants must register too. All of the people helping you with care need to sign up with PPL as well. This includes uploading documents like ID and proof of vaccination, which can take some time.
PPL offers multiple ways to register, and you can get help through facilitators in your area. These facilitators are there to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Responsibility for the Transition
One important point is that you, as the consumer, are responsible for making sure your personal assistants complete their registration. This means checking in with them, reminding them to upload their documents, and making sure everything is done before the deadline.
This may feel like a lot to handle, but remember, you don’t have to do it alone. PPL’s facilitators are available to help, and there are plenty of resources to guide you.
Possible Delays in Service
If you or your personal assistants don’t complete the registration by March 28, 2025, there’s a risk that your CDPAP services could be delayed. This means you may not have your personal assistants to help with your care until the transition is finished.
To avoid any interruptions, it’s important to start the process early. That way, you have time to get everything in order.
Resources to Help You
Here are some helpful resources to make the process easier:
- PPL-NY Website: You can find all the details about how to register and what documents are needed. This website has answers to many common questions and step-by-step instructions.
- New York State CDPAP Website: This official site also offers guidance, including deadlines, facilitator help, and other key information.
- Local Facilitators: If you need extra help, facilitators are available in your area to offer personalized support. They can guide you through the registration process and answer any questions you may have.
What Can You Do Right Now?
Here’s what you can do today to stay ahead of the curve:
- Start the Registration Process: Don’t wait until the last minute. Begin your registration with PPL now and make sure your personal assistants do the same.
- Communicate with Your Personal Assistants: Talk to your personal assistants about the transition. Remind them about the deadline and help them with any paperwork they need to upload.
- Reach Out for Help: If you feel overwhelmed, contact a facilitator. They’re available to assist with the registration process and can answer any questions you have.
- Stay Updated: Keep checking the websites and news sources for updates about the transition. You’ll want to stay informed as the deadline approaches.
Transition to PPL: Estate Planning Law Center can help!
We know the transition to PPL can feel like a big change, but with the right planning and support, you can make it through smoothly. Start early, get help when you need it, and keep your personal assistants in the loop. By staying ahead of the March 28, 2025, deadline, you can avoid any disruptions to your CDPAP services and continue receiving the care you need.
At Estate Planning Law Center, we understand how important it is to ensure that you and your loved ones are well taken care of, especially during times of transition like the CDPAP changes. Here’s how we can help you with the upcoming shift and provide peace of mind:
1. Expert Guidance on Medicaid and Long-Term Care Planning
We specialize in Medicaid and long-term care planning, and we can help you understand how these changes to the CDPAP program might affect your Medicaid eligibility and long-term care options. Our experienced attorneys can provide tailored advice on how to protect your assets and ensure your care needs are met.
2. Assistance with CDPAP Transitions
The transition to PPL as the fiscal intermediary for CDPAP can be confusing, and we’re here to help you with the legal aspects of the process. Whether you’re a consumer or a personal assistant, we can guide you through the steps of registering with PPL, making sure all the necessary paperwork is completed, and ensuring your services continue without interruption.
3. Legal Support for Family Caregivers
If you’re a family member or friend who provides care through CDPAP, you may have questions about your rights, responsibilities, and options for continuing care. We can provide legal support to family caregivers, helping you navigate the process and ensuring that your loved one’s care is handled legally and efficiently.
4. Customized Estate Planning
As part of our services, we offer customized estate planning that takes into account your healthcare needs, including potential long-term care. We’ll help you structure your estate plan to protect your assets while ensuring that you receive the best care possible. This includes strategies for Medicaid planning, asset protection, and setting up powers of attorney to manage your health and finances.
At Estate Planning Law Center, we’re committed to guiding you through every step of this transition and ensuring that your long-term care needs are met, with all the legal protections in place. Let us handle the complexities so you can focus on what truly matters—your health, your family, and your future.
You can call Estate Planning Law Center and speak to one of our friendly attorneys on: Call Us (315) 793-3622.
