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What’s Involved in the AMFC Training Program?

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Florida Family Home Health aide

Families that struggle to support themselves financially while caring for their medically fragile family member are turning to the new Florida family home health aide program offered through Atlantic Care Services. Here’s how it works.

The AMFC (Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children) training program walks you through the state-mandated training regulations with ease. We want to ensure your process of getting started is as smooth and easy as possible. 

With our custom training now live, interested families can take advantage of comprehensive training at no cost, further enabling them to qualify for the AMFC program.

Overview of the AMFC Training Program

The Florida Family Home Health Aide program consists of a robust training curriculum tailored to meet the needs of caregivers for medically fragile children. Here is what you can expect from the training:

  • 40 Hours of Theoretical Training: This component covers essential theoretical knowledge regarding medical conditions, care techniques, and best practices in caregiving.
  • 10 Hours of Medication Management: Caregivers will receive instruction on the safe and effective administration of medications, ensuring they understand proper protocols and guidelines.
  • 36 Hours of Hands-On Training: This practical component will allow caregivers to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-life scenarios under supervision.
  • 16 Hours of Skills Competency: Caregivers will demonstrate their skills through hands-on assessments to ensure they are competent in delivering high-quality care.

The training is state-mandated, meeting the standards set by regulatory authorities. We know you already provide excellent care to your child, but completing this training is a prerequisite for participation in the program and employment with Atlantic Care Services.

Important Details for Families

Atlantic Care Services is committed to preparing families for the Florida AMFC program by offering comprehensive training and credentialing. Our proactive approach ensures that family members meet all necessary requirements, equipping them with the skills needed to provide the highest level of care for their children.

Furthermore, it is essential to note that any income earned through the program will count toward your family’s Medicaid eligibility income level. However, at this time, patients enrolled in the Florida Kid Care Medicaid program are not eligible. Atlantic Care Services monitors this situation closely and will update families on any changes.

How to Access the Training

Families will receive an email from no-reply@trainual.com with instructions on how to access the training. Upon receiving this email, click the purple “Join Us!” button to begin your training journey. The Trainual platform works best on a computer or laptop but is also accessible via mobile devices by downloading the Trainual app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the AMFC training program? The AMFC training program helps family members enhance their skills and knowledge in order to care for their medically fragile child or family member as an employee of Atlantic Care Services.

Is there a cost for the training? No, the training is provided at no cost to families.

What is the duration of the training? The training consists of 40 hours of theoretical instruction, 10 hours of medication management, and additional hands-on training and skills competency assessments that are currently being developed.

How will I be notified about the training? Interested and qualifying family members will receive an email with detailed instructions on accessing the training platform.

Can I access the training on my phone? Yes, the training can be accessed on mobile devices by downloading the Trainual app, but using a computer or laptop is recommended for the best experience.

Get Started with the AMFC Program

This program provides an opportunity for you to become a family home health aid for medically fragile children, providing financial support and allowing for more personalized and consistent care. Now that you know a little more about the training requirements, contact us today to get started!

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program?

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Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program

Providing care for a medically fragile child can be complicated, not to mention expensive. Here, we answer the question, “Who qualifies for the Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program?” to show you that your family could be eligible.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program, established under House Bill 391, offers a critical support system for families caring for children with significant medical needs.

The initiative seeks to address the healthcare worker shortage by enabling family caregivers to receive training and gainful employment as home health aides. Understanding who qualifies for this program can help families navigate their options and access the support they need.

Eligibility Requirements for Home Health Aide Services Caregivers

Family caregivers must meet specific criteria to qualify for the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program. The primary requirement is that the caregiver be a family member of a medically fragile child. Caregivers must also be at least 18 years old and able to read and write. 

Additionally, they must pass background screening requirements. Once these initial qualifications are met, the caregiver must complete in-home training with an RN and pass a skills competency.

Training Requirements

The training process for family caregivers is comprehensive, ensuring they are fully equipped to provide high-quality care. Caregivers must complete a minimum of 85 hours of training, broken down as follows:

  • 40 hours of theoretical nursing education covering essential caregiving principles, patient safety, and infection control.
  • 20 hours of hands-on nursing skills training, focusing on tasks such as mobility assistance, wound care, and monitoring vital signs.
  • 16 hours of clinical training under the direct supervision of a registered nurse (RN), allowing caregivers to apply their skills in real-life scenarios.

In addition to these core training hours, caregivers must meet specialized education requirements, including:

  • HIV/AIDS training, with specific hours set by the program.
  • CPR certification, which must be maintained through regular renewals.
  • 12 hours of annual in-service training, ensuring caregivers stay up to date on best practices.
  • 6 hours of state-mandated training covering key topics such as patient rights and emergency preparedness.
  • 4 additional hours focused on medication administration, ensuring caregivers can safely assist with prescribed treatments.

For caregivers participating in the Family Home Health Aide Training Program, Phase 2 of the training will include additional coursework, enhanced clinical training and competency evaluations. This phase ensures that caregivers are prepared to handle more complex medical needs and adhere to state regulations.

By meeting these training requirements, caregivers can provide safe, effective care while maintaining compliance with Florida’s home health standards.

Eligibility Criteria For Children

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program

Specific eligibility criteria also apply to the child receiving care. The child must be 21 years old or younger and have an underlying physical, mental, or cognitive impairment that prevents them from safely living independently. 

Furthermore, the child must be eligible for skilled or respite care services under the Medicaid program. These criteria ensure that the program supports children with significant medical needs requiring specialized care at home.

Program Benefits

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program offers numerous benefits to support families and their children. By leveraging this program, families can access essential resources, training, and financial support to enhance their caregiving experience significantly. 

In the following section, we will explore the critical advantages of participating in the program, including how it addresses the challenges faced by families and improves overall care for medically fragile children.

Personalized Care 

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program provides personalized care tailored to each child’s unique needs. By employing family caregivers as aides, the program ensures that children receive specialized attention from individuals familiar with their medical requirements in their own homes.

Family Support 

The program supports families by offering comprehensive training and guidance to caregivers. This helps alleviate the burden of caregiving and equips family members with the skills needed to provide high-quality care at home.

Financial Assistance 

The program addresses financial challenges by offering a competitive hourly rate for family caregivers, subsidized by Medicaid. This financial support and other employee benefits help ease the economic strain associated with caregiving while providing families with the necessary resources to manage their child’s complex needs.

How to Apply for Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children

If you believe your family could benefit from the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program, Atlantic Care Services is here to help. Start by contacting us to begin the application process. 

We will assist you with verifying Medicaid eligibility, providing the necessary documentation of your child’s medical condition, and enrolling in the required training program. Our dedicated team will guide you through each step, ensuring you meet all criteria and receive the support you need.

AMFC Qualification FAQ

What factors determine if my child qualifies for the program?
Eligibility is based on medical necessity, as determined by a physician. The child must require hands-on assistance with daily living activities, medication administration, or other skilled care due to a chronic or complex medical condition.

What paperwork is required to determine eligibility?
Families must provide a physician’s certification of medical necessity, recent medical records, a medication list, and completed program application forms. If applicable, proof of Medicaid eligibility may also be required.

What are the medical criteria for eligibility?
Children must have a diagnosed medical condition that requires skilled care at home. A physician must confirm that home health aide services are medically necessary to support the child’s daily needs.

Does my child need to have Medicaid to qualify?
Medicaid is often required for program eligibility, but some children may qualify through specific waiver programs or alternative funding sources. Families should check with the home health agency to explore their options.

Who is responsible for training caregivers and family members?
The home health agency designs and conducts the training based on standardized program guidelines. Training covers essential caregiving skills, medication administration, and emergency response.

Who Qualifies For The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children Program? Contact Us To Discuss Your Eligibility

We are dedicated to helping you navigate the eligibility process for our programs, ensuring you fully understand the requirements and have the resources needed to complete the application process with ease. Our team is here to guide you step-by-step, answering all your questions and providing clear explanations to help you determine your family’s eligibility.

Your child’s well-being is our top priority, and we’re here to support you in accessing the care and services they deserve. Contact us today, and let us assist you in making this process as simple and stress-free as possible.

What is the Best Care Option for Your Medically Fragile Child?

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child care for medically fragile children

Finding the right child care for medically fragile children is a significant decision for any family. The complexity of medical needs and the emotional weight of ensuring the best environment for your child can be overwhelming. 

Government programs like Medicaid can be a lifeline, offering free or subsidized complex medical needs child care and therapies based on disability rather than income. 

Securing these benefits requires specific diagnoses and the process varies by state. Once your child is on Medicaid, they are also eligible for the new government-sponsored program that we offer at Atlantic Care Services. 

Let’s explore the various care options and why the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program might be the best choice for your family.

Understanding Complex Medical Needs Child Care

Complex medical needs child care encompasses a range of services designed to support children with various disabilities and medical conditions. Under the American Disabilities Act, typical daycares must accommodate children with special needs, but this often falls short of what is required. Many families find securing appropriate and adequate child care challenging, if not impossible.

Types of Child Care For Medically Fragile Children

  • In-Home Care: In-home care provides personalized attention and allows children to stay in a familiar environment. Caregivers with specialized training can handle complex medical needs, making this an ideal choice for children who require constant medical supervision.
  • Specialized Child Care Centers: These centers offer trained staff and adapted facilities to cater to children with significant medical needs. They often provide access to therapies and specialized equipment but can be more costly.
  • Inclusive Child Care Programs: Inclusive programs integrate children with and without special needs, promoting socialization and developmental benefits. These settings provide support within a community environment, fostering peer learning and inclusion.
  • Respite Care: Respite care offers temporary relief for families, giving primary caregivers a break while ensuring their child receives appropriate care. This can range from a few hours to overnight stays or week-long camps.
  • Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children: This program is optimal for many families. It combines the benefits of professional medical care with the comfort and convenience of home-based services.

Why Choose Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children? child care for medically fragile children

Choosing the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program ensures that your child receives consistent, high-quality care from a trained family member tailored to their medical needs. 

This program offers several advantages:

  • Personalized Care: Home health aides are family members trained to handle various medical needs, from tube feedings to ventilator settings, ensuring your child gets the precise care they require.
  • Comfort and Familiarity: Receiving care at home from a trained family member means your child stays in a familiar, comfortable environment, which can lower stress and promote better health outcomes.
  • Reduced Hospital Visits: With skilled care available at home, the frequency of hospital visits can decrease, leading to a more stable and less disruptive routine for your child.

The Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program is designed to offer the best possible care while easing the burden on families. Our dedicated team is committed to supporting your family’s unique needs by ensuring you receive the training necessary to provide your child with the attention and care they deserve.

Why Work with Atlantic Care Services?

At Atlantic Care Services, we understand the unique challenges faced by families with medically fragile children. Our skilled team is dedicated to providing the highest level of training and support through the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program. 

By choosing Atlantic Care Services, you gain access to:

  • Expert Guidance: Our team includes experienced RNs specializing in pediatric care, ensuring you receive top-notch training, support, and guidance.
  • Personalized Care Plans: We work closely with families to develop customized care plans that address each child’s specific needs.
  • Reliable Communication: Our dedication to open communication ensures that family caregivers can always reach out to Atlantic Care Services with any questions or concerns about their child’s care.

Contact Us Today

Choosing the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program with Atlantic Care Services means partnering with a dedicated team that prioritizes your child’s health and well-being. 

Contact Atlantic Care Services today to learn how this program can benefit your family and provide the peace of mind you need. Together, we can create a brighter, healthier future for your child.

Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children

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pediatric home health aide program

Caring for a medically fragile child can be challenging, both emotionally and financially. The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program offers families support by allowing parents to become a pediatric home health aide, providing stability and essential caregiving skills.

We are proud to be one of the first in Florida to offer this program. We partner with families to help care for their medically fragile children at home.

When you’re caring for a medically fragile child, you’re not just managing their complex medical needs. You’re navigating a world of regular medical interventions, therapies, and careful health management. It’s a journey marked by a constant need for support and understanding.

At Atlantic Care Services, we don’t just see these challenges; we live them with you. We’re here to provide the support and services your family needs, tailored to your unique situation.

Caring For Medically Fragile Children

House Bill 391 created the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children Program. This program aims to solve the serious shortage of healthcare workers trained to offer comprehensive care for medically fragile children.

This program helps parents and family members. It offers training and job opportunities to support them while ensuring they can provide the specialized care the child requires.

Filling The Gaps in Healthcare

According to a 2023 analysis by the Florida Legislature, approximately 5,000 medically fragile children and their families are eligible to benefit from this program, highlighting its significant impact on our community’s healthcare landscape.

At Atlantic Care Services, we are proud to support this initiative. We are ready to help families get the care and resources they need.

Benefits Of The Program pediatric home health aide program

The Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program is designed for pediatric home health care with families in mind, offering a holistic approach. Imagine the peace of mind of earning an income while caring for your child at home. The program offers financial stability and thorough training. You will learn basic caregiving skills and how to handle medical emergencies helping you confidently meet your child’s unique needs from the comfort of your home.

Our highly skilled team of professionals is always available by phone to provide the support and guidance you need whenever you need it.

What to Expect from Training

Training through the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children program is more than a requirement—it’s a foundation for confident, compassionate caregiving. Participants begin with a 40-hour online course that covers essential health and safety knowledge. From there, they complete 36 hours of hands-on, in-home training under the supervision of a registered pediatric nurse.

This comprehensive approach ensures caregivers are equipped to handle real-world situations, from daily care routines to potential emergencies. The final step is a 16-hour competency assessment, where you’ll demonstrate the skills needed to care for your child safely and effectively.

Training is designed to be accessible, supportive, and deeply relevant to the care your child needs. And you’re never on your own—our clinical team is just a phone call away to answer questions, offer guidance, and cheer you on every step of the way.

How To Get Started

Getting started with the Home Health Aides For Medically Fragile Children program is straightforward. Contact us, and we’ll help determine your eligibility for this program according to the state’s requirements. Eligibility requirements include:

  • The caregiver must be at least 18 years old.
  • The child receiving care must be 21 years old or younger.
  • The child must have an underlying physical, mental, or cognitive impairment that requires skilled care or respite care services under the Medicaid program.
  • The caregiver must pass a level 2 background screening.
  • Medicaid or other eligible insurance coverage is required to reimburse for services.

Once approved, you’ll begin a comprehensive training journey with a 40-hour online course and 36 hours of in-home training supervised by a registered pediatric nurse. This training equips you with essential caregiving skills and prepares you to provide specialized care to your child.

Following the training, you’ll undergo a 16-hour skilled competency assessment to ensure you’re fully prepared and confident in your caregiving abilities.

Throughout every step of this journey, our dedicated team is here to support you, offering guidance and assistance to ensure your success in caring for your medically fragile child.

AMFC FAQ

Q: Who qualifies to receive payment through the Home Health Aides for Medically Fragile Children (AMFC) program?
A: Parents, legal guardians, and certain family members who meet eligibility criteria, complete the required training, and are employed by a Medicaid-approved home health agency can receive payment for caring for their medically fragile child.

Q: Is training required for family members to participate in the AMFC program?
A: Yes, family members must complete 40 hours of theoretical instruction, in-home training with an RN, and pass a skills competency assessment to be eligible for employment through a home health agency.

Q: How do I get started with the AMFC program?
A: Families interested in participating must contact a Medicaid-approved home health agency, such as Atlantic Care Services, to begin the application and training process.

Q: Can multiple family members participate in the program and provide care?
A: Yes, multiple family members can be trained and employed through the program, as long as they meet all eligibility and training requirements.

Why Choose Atlantic Care Services?

At Atlantic Care Services, we understand the unique challenges you face as a parent of a medically fragile child. Our team includes experienced registered nurses specializing in pediatric care, ensuring you receive the highest level of support and guidance.

We’re more than just a home care service—we’re your partner in providing the best care possible for your child. By joining the program, you’ll find a job and a community of support and empowerment. This program offers more than financial stability; it enhances your child’s quality of life through specialized care and attention.

Contact us today to learn how the pediatric home health aide program and our care team can support your family and provide quality care for your child. Take the first step toward a brighter future.

Our Story

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A Passion For Helping Others

Our founder and CEO, Jason Coons, has always had a passion for healthcare and helping others. His sister Noell was born with Spina Bifida. Jason saw his sister go through multiple surgeries, receive in-home care, and face many day-to-day challenges with her disability. His sister is now thriving and owns her own company, TheBrideBox.com.

In addition, Jason’s son, Zachary, was born in 2017 with two rare defects, Congenital Diaphragmatic Hernia (CDH) and Omphalocele. Zachary received lifesaving care and surgeries in the NICU at All Children’s Hospital in St. Petersburg, FL, and spent 103 days in the hospital. Zach came home with oxygen and a Gtube and required multiple follow-up surgeries to continue his repair. Because of the great care and love he received, he is a happy and thriving young boy now!

Jason’s experience and success working in the home health industry for six years prior to starting Atlantic Care Services and his personal experiences as a brother and father showed him the way to create a home health company he could be proud of. Jaime Gonzalez, our COO, worked with Jason at his previous home health company. Jaime described Jason as creating an incredibly positive work and team culture. People no longer felt like they had to work but that they wanted to work.

Jason knew that treating caregivers like gold in every way possible and supporting them in both their careers and their personal lives would result in a culture and place where families would want to come to receive care and caregivers would want to stay.

January 31st, 2018, is the day that Jason secured the license for Atlantic Care Services from the state of Florida. The first patient joined on October 2nd, 2019. Ever since then, the company has continued to grow and make a positive impact on the home healthcare community.

We come together every day to think of new ways to keep our caregivers happy and ensure there is no better home health company to work for. Having the best compensation and benefits in the industry is only a part of it! Keep reading to find out more about our benefits, rewards, and recognition programs.

 

As working parents, it is hard to care for our child and give them the undivided attention they need while providing for the family at the same time. Atlantic Care Services and their staff always puts our child’s best interest first.
 

― Marlon G