Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) Exemptions for Live-In Caregivers

OUR GOAL IS TO UPDATE NEW MEXICO’S EVV POLICY BY INCLUDING AN EXEMPTION FOR LIVE-IN CAREGIVERS

We are urging New Mexico to recognize the unique challenges of collecting Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) for Personal Care Services (PCS) in consideration of the state’s multigenerational family culture unlike any other state. New Mexico has been at the forefront of PCS policies that address the home and community-based service needs of people with disabilities. They continue to lead and follow a pathway that is designed to encourage and foster independence and autonomy in the lives of the people in our communities as they deserve. We advocate for allowing exemptions from EVV requirements for services provided by documented Live-in Caregivers and call for the state to simplify and streamline policies to agree with federal guidelines. Currently, 21 states provide an EVV exemption for live-in caregivers.

WHY DO WE NEED AN EVV EXEMPTION FOR LIVE-IN CAREGIVERS IN NEW MEXICO?

  • Recording EVV poses unique challenges for services provided by live-in caregivers, which are often delivered incrementally and without clearly defined start and end times.
  • An exemption from EVV requirements for live-in caregivers in New Mexico would ensure that flexibility of service delivery is not interrupted by EVV, and allows live-in caregivers to prioritize the health and wellness of the person receiving services.

CMS DOES NOT REQUIRE EVV FOR LIVE-IN CAREGIVERS

CMS guidance states that EVV requirements do not apply when the caregiver providing the service and the beneficiary live together, and PCS provided by a live-in caregiver does not constitute an “in-home visit” by CMS.

WHAT IS EVV?

EVV is a computer-based system that electronically verifies personal care service visits by electronically documenting the precise time and location where a service delivery visit begins and ends. It is the required form of timekeeping for Personal Care Services under the Medicaid Turquoise Care Community Benefit Program.

WHAT IS THE TURQUOISE CARE COMMUNITY BENEFIT PROGRAM?

This program provides long-term services and supports to people who need assistance to live at home or in a community setting rather than in a long-term care facility. The program offers many services, from personal care assistance with daily activities such as bathing and dressing to employment supports and modifications to make your home safer and more accessible.

WHAT DO YOU THINK?

As an advocacy organization, we are here to support you. We want to know about your experience with the Community Benefit Program. Let us know what you think by filling out the form below.

  • What has been your experience with EVV? Benefits? Drawbacks?
  • Would a live-in caregiver EVV exemption help you or someone you know?
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