In-home supportive services (IHSS) are an invaluable support system for those with disabilities or elderly individuals who require assistance with daily activities.
For recipients of IHSS, understanding the rules surrounding travel—especially out of the country—can be complex. Many recipients may wonder, “Can an IHSS recipient travel out of the country?” The answer depends on various factors, including the nature of the recipient’s condition and the specifics of the care they receive.
The IHSS program is a service designed to help eligible individuals remain in their homes and communities. When it comes to traveling outside of the United States, there are distinct rules that can affect the recipient’s ability to continue receiving services.
These regulations make sure that the recipient’s care needs are met even during temporary absences. However, they also highlight the limits of the system.
Understanding the Basics of IHSS
IHSS is designed to offer flexible, home-based care to individuals who qualify. This includes help with daily tasks such as bathing, dressing, cooking, cleaning, and assistance with mobility.
While IHSS allows for a variety of service options within different states, it is tied closely to where the recipient resides and the specific county they live in.
If an IHSS recipient needs to leave the country, it is important to understand how the program will react to these changes in location. The goal of IHSS is to offer consistent care. Nevertheless, there are limits when the recipient is not in their usual home environment.
Traveling Out of the State vs. Out of the Country
The distinction between traveling within the U.S. and traveling internationally is significant when it comes to the IHSS program.
The rules that apply to these two situations are slightly different. Understanding them can help avoid complications with benefits.
Traveling Within the U.S.
For recipients who plan to travel outside of their home state but remain within the U.S., the rules are more accommodating.
As long as the recipient and their caregiver travel together, they can maintain their IHSS hours. If the recipient is going on a medical trip or vacation, they are allowed to continue receiving services for up to 30 days.
However, the caregiver must be traveling with the recipient. If the provider is not accompanying the recipient, their hours will be considered “on leave,” and the recipient will not be able to use those hours.
It is important to notify the local case manager about any plans to travel. The case manager will need to confirm that services will continue during the absence. The rules make sure that the recipient’s health and care needs are monitored even when they are away from home.
Can an IHSS Recipient Travel out of the Country?
The rules become more complicated when traveling outside of the country. For IHSS recipients planning international travel, it is vital to understand that there are fewer guarantees that services will continue.
If an IHSS recipient travels abroad, it is unlikely that services will be available. This is because the program does not extend beyond U.S. borders.
In such cases, it is necessary to notify the county case manager about any travel plans well in advance. The case manager will typically inquire about the recipient’s destination, the reason for the travel, and the caregiver’s involvement.
While the recipient can travel internationally, they must return within 30 days for the IHSS services to continue without interruption.
If the recipient does not return within this time frame, IHSS services may end. The recipient will need to reapply for services upon their return.
The Importance of Notification
If an IHSS recipient plans to travel either within the U.S. or internationally, it is important to notify their case manager ahead of time.
The case manager will assess the situation, confirm the details, and make sure the care provider’s hours and the recipient’s benefits will continue in the most appropriate manner. The notification process allows the case manager to make adjustments to service levels and confirm that the care recipient’s needs will be met while away.
Failing to notify the case manager can result in the suspension or termination of IHSS hours. The absence may be seen as an unapproved leave. It is always better to be proactive in these situations to avoid interruptions in care.
Special Considerations for Parents or Family Caregivers
When a family member acts as the caregiver for an IHSS recipient, additional considerations must be made.
If the family member is the primary caregiver, they may be eligible to receive payments for their services through the IHSS program. However, when it comes to traveling, the rules become more complicated.
For example, if the family caregiver travels with the recipient, they may still be eligible to receive their hours, even for trips out of state. Nevertheless, if the caregiver is not accompanying the recipient, their IHSS hours may be reduced or paused.
As mentioned earlier, the case manager must be notified. The family should clarify whether the travel is temporary or long-term.
This aspect is especially relevant for those who are considering traveling out of the country. In such cases, it is best to consult with an expert or someone familiar with the rules of IHSS to better understand how travel may impact the caregiver’s payment and the recipient’s access to services.
Can IHSS Hours Be Accumulated?
One of the common questions that arise when traveling is whether IHSS hours can be accumulated while away.
The short answer is no—IHSS hours cannot be accumulated during travel. For those traveling domestically or internationally, services will continue as long as the recipient and their caregiver are within the guidelines of the program.
However, once the 30-day limit has been reached, the recipient will need to resume their care back at their residence.
Keeping Track of Travel Plans and IHSS Benefits
To avoid confusion and assure uninterrupted service, it is recommended that recipients and caregivers keep detailed records of their travel plans.
Any documents, such as medical certificates or written travel itineraries, that can help explain the nature of the trip should be kept on file. This can prevent issues when confirming that IHSS services will continue.
How Voyager Home Health Care Can Help
At Voyager Home Health Care, we understand how important it is to navigate the rules surrounding IHSS and travel. If you have questions about your eligibility or need assistance with planning travel while receiving services, we are here to help.
Our team can guide you through the process and make sure that you continue to receive the care you need during your time away.
Reach out to us to learn more about how we can assist with IHSS, Parent CNA, and the Arizona LHA programs.
