By Lynda Williams, RN CACM, Red River HealthCare Systems
Oklahoma has the ADvantage Program, providing Oklahoman’s a community alternative to nursing home care through Oklahoma Department of Human Services (OKDHS) Aging Service Division. Texas has a similar program that is provided through the Department of Aging and Disability, called the CBA Program. Both programs offer comprehensive services which allow senior and/or disabled adults to remain in their home.
The ADvantage program utilizes a statewide network of community providers to deliver authorized ADvantage services and/or supplies to clients rather than utilizing state agency employees. The variety of services offered include: personal care, advanced supportive/restorative assistance, nursing care, environmental modifications of property, medication, adult day health care, case management, home delivered meals, therapies, hospice, respite, and medical supplies and/or equipment. Medical supplies and/or equipment can include items such as shower chairs, bath safety bars, telephone emergency response systems, washable bed pads and incontinence supplies.
To enroll in this amazing program one simply needs to submit an application at the local DHS. Once qualified, one chooses a health care agency and completes paperwork. It usually takes 6 to 8 weeks to get everything started. Once you have been approved this qualification is usually for one year, however, you may cancel and/or reduce any or all services at any time by contacting your healthcare case manager.
Qualified individuals will not be financially responsible for any supplies and/or services received. There is no limitation to number of individuals in a single household who may receive services, but each must qualify individually.
For more information on the Advantage program for the senior citizen and/or disabled adult who wish to remain in their own home while receiving the assistance contact your local DHS at the follow numbers: In Oklahoma, 800-777-7328 and in Texas, 903-892-0581
Resources: Oklahoma Department of Human Services, Long Term Care (LTC) Services
