The Colorado Parent CNA Program offers a distinct opportunity for parents to care for their children in a home setting while receiving compensation as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA). This program allows families to combine the love and care they naturally provide with the professional skills necessary to support children with special health care needs.
In this guide, we address common questions about the program to help you understand the steps involved and how you can become a Parent CNA in Colorado.
What Is the Colorado Parent CNA Program?
Our Colorado Parent CNA Program is offered to enable parents by allowing them to become certified caregivers for their children. This program makes sure that parents who are already dedicated to their children’s well-being can formalize their caregiving role, providing professional-level care and earning a sustainable income in the process.
To qualify for the program, your child must first be eligible for Health First Colorado, the state’s Medicaid program. Eligibility can be determined through Colorado PEAK, an online portal that assists families in applying for Medicaid benefits.
Once your child is approved, they must also qualify for CNA services, which involves an assessment by a licensed home health agency using the Pediatric Assessment Tool (PAT). This assessment is essential in determining the level of care your child needs and whether they are eligible for services under the Colorado Parent CNA Program.
How Do I Become a Parent CNA?
If your child qualifies, the next step is for you to become a certified CNA in Colorado. This process involves completing a nurse aide training program approved by the Colorado Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA).
Programs vary in cost and duration, hence, it’s important to consider these factors, along with the program’s success rate in preparing students for the state certification exam. Passing both the written and clinical portions of this exam is essential to becoming certified.
Once certified, you must be hired by a home health agency that participates in Health First Colorado. We advise seeking an agency that supports the Parent CNA model and may even offer financial assistance for your training and certification costs.
As part of this program, you will take on the same responsibilities as any other CNA employed by the agency to make sure that your child receives consistent, high-quality care.
What Should I Consider Before Becoming a Parent CNA?
While the Colorado Parent CNA Program offers numerous benefits, it’s important to consider a few key factors before moving forward. As a Parent CNA, your income may affect your child’s Medicaid and SSI eligibility.
It’s vital to understand the income limits and how they apply to your situation, particularly if your child is enrolled in the Medicaid Buy-In program. Additionally, balancing the dual roles of parent and professional caregiver can be challenging. We encourage parents to carefully evaluate whether this role suits their family dynamic.
The Colorado Parent CNA Program also requires that you work closely with your child’s care team to develop and implement a care plan that meets their specific needs. This collaborative approach guarantees that your child receives the best possible care, while you gain the support and resources needed to succeed in your dual roles.
Where Can I Find Additional Resources and Support?
The process of becoming a Parent CNA can be complex. For questions about income and Medicaid eligibility, we recommend contacting the Colorado Department of Health Care Policy and Financing’s Home Health Program.
Additionally, the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) provides valuable resources, including a list of approved CNA training programs and guidance on transferring certification if you are already certified in another state.
For parents seeking additional support, HCP – A Program for Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs – offers connections to valuable services and supports. We are committed to helping families navigate these resources to make certain that they have access to the information and assistance needed to thrive in the Colorado Parent CNA Program.
Why Choose Us for Your Home Health Care Needs?
At Voyager Home Health Care, we believe in empowering families to provide the best care for their loved ones. As Colorado’s highest-paying provider, we take pride in offering top-tier services, including our Parent CNA Program, In-Home Support Services (IHSS), and Children’s Home and Community-Based Services (CHCBS).
Our commitment to transparency, client satisfaction, and high-quality care sets us apart in the home healthcare industry. Whether you’re just beginning your journey as a Parent CNA or need ongoing support, we are here to make sure you have the resources and guidance you need.
The Colorado Parent CNA Program offers a unique opportunity for families to provide professional-level care for their children while maintaining the comfort and familiarity of home. With our support, you can manage the difficulties of certification, employment, and caregiving so that your child receives the best possible care.
If you have further questions or would like to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to contact us. We are available to assist you 24/7, and we often provide same-day assessments to meet your urgent needs.
