Family Care (FC), often referred to within Texas Health and Human Services as Texas Health Family Care, is a vital non-technical attendant care service designed to support individuals facing functional limitations due to age, disability, or medical conditions. This program focuses on providing assistance with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) through trained attendants, ensuring individuals can maintain their independence and quality of life within their homes and communities. These essential services do not require attendants to possess professional healthcare or technical certifications, emphasizing compassionate support and practical assistance.
Who Provides and Manages Family Care?
In Texas, Family Care services are delivered by licensed Home and Community Support Services Agencies (HCSSAs). These agencies contract with the Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) to administer FC, along with related programs like Primary Home Care (PHC) and Community Attendant Services (CAS). For individuals and organizations interested in becoming providers of Texas Health Family Care, understanding the regulatory landscape and contracting process is crucial.
Becoming a Texas Health Family Care Provider
To offer Texas Health Family Care services, agencies must first obtain licensure as an HCSSA in Texas. This involves meeting stringent minimum standards outlined in Title 26, Chapter 558 of the Texas Administrative Code. Prospective providers can find detailed information on licensing requirements on the HCSSA site.
Eligibility to contract with HHSC to provide Texas Health Family Care also requires adherence to specific criteria detailed in Title 40 of the Texas Administrative Code. It’s important to note that contracts for FC are bundled with PHC and CAS programs, meaning providers must agree to serve individuals across all three programs. More information regarding the HHSC provider enrollment process can be found on the HHSC provider enrollment page.
Application and Contact Information for Providers
Applying to become a Texas Health Family Care provider involves submitting a comprehensive application to HHSC. To ensure a smooth application process, applicants should utilize Form 5830, Contract Application Packet Checklist, State Office Enrolled to verify all necessary documents are included.
Completed applications and inquiries can be submitted through the following channels:
- Email: hhseopcm@hhsc.state.tx.us
- Fax: 512-206-3979
- Regular Mail: Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management, Mail Code W-357P.O. Box 149030, Austin, Texas 78714-9030
- Overnight/Express Delivery: Texas Health and Human Services Commission, Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management, Mail Code W-357, 909 West 45th Street, Austin, Texas 78751
For any questions regarding the enrollment process, please contact Eligibility Operations Provider Contract Management directly at 512-438-3550.
Stay Updated with HHSC
Maintaining compliance and staying informed about program updates is essential for Texas Health Family Care providers. HHSC utilizes Granicus GovDelivery for email updates. Subscribing to these updates is mandatory for contractors, as stipulated in 40 Texas Administrative Code Section 49.302(g). You can subscribe through the GovDelivery link.
Texas Health Family Care plays a critical role in the Texas healthcare landscape, providing essential support to vulnerable populations. By understanding the program’s framework and adhering to guidelines, both providers and recipients can benefit from these valuable services.
