LEARN MORE ABOUT SELF-DIRECTION

Consumer Direct Care Network Washington

LEARN MORE ABOUT SELF-DIRECTION

Self-Direction: Take Control of Your Support at Home

Self-direction, also called consumer-direction, helps people with disabilities or other long-term care needs stay independent and safe in their homes and communities.

Why Choose Self-Direction?

Self-direction is a flexible, cost-saving alternative to nursing homes or other traditional care. It helps you stay in your home and your community, where you’re most comfortable.

You are in charge. You choose someone you trust to help—like a family member, friend, or someone in your community.

This is different from traditional care, where an agency assigns your caregiver. With self-direction, you make the decisions.

Freedom to Choose 

Pick the caregiver who best meets your needs. 
Care at Home

Get support right where you live. 
Personalized Help

Set your schedule and choose the tasks you need help with. 
Trusted Support

Hire someone you know, like a friend or family member.

How Does It Work?

With self-direction, you or someone you trust can decide:

Who helps you
When they help
What kind of help you need

You may also help decide how your Medicaid funds are used, giving you more control and flexibility.

What Is a Financial Management Services (FMS) Provider?

You’re in charge—but you’re not alone. Consumer Direct, a Financial Management Services (FMS) provider, helps with:

Paying your caregivers and handling taxes
Training support to meet Medicaid requirements
Tracking your spending to stay within your budget
Helping with paperwork and questions

Think of your FMS provider as a partner behind the scenes, so you can focus on living your life.

Can I Use Self-Directed Care?

You may qualify if:

You are on Medicaid
You have a disability or long-term health condition
You’re paying privately for care