Massachusetts PCA (Personal Care Attendant) Program
Massachusetts' PCA Program is one of the nation's oldest and most established consumer-directed personal care programs, giving individuals complete control over hiring and managing their caregivers, including family members.
Prefer to talk?
(800) 555-0001How the Massachusetts PCA (Personal Care Attendant) Program Works
Massachusetts' PCA Program is fully consumer-directed — you are the employer of your PCAs. You recruit, hire, train, schedule, supervise, and if necessary, fire your personal care attendants.
Family members (except spouses and parents of minor children) can serve as your PCAs. A fiscal intermediary processes timesheets and handles payroll, but you maintain complete control over your care.
Massachusetts' program is known for its strong consumer rights orientation and has served as a model for other states developing similar programs.
Who Qualifies in Massachusetts?
Eligibility Requirements
- Must be enrolled in MassHealth (Massachusetts Medicaid)
- Must have a permanent or chronic disability
- Must need assistance with Activities of Daily Living
- Must be able to direct own care or have a surrogate
- Massachusetts residents only
Who Can Be a Caregiver?
- Adult children
- Siblings & relatives
- Trusted friends
- Spouses (varies by program)
Frequently Asked Questions About Massachusetts's Program
Massachusetts pioneered consumer-directed personal care. As a participant, you have complete control as the employer — you hire, train, schedule, and manage your PCAs. This level of consumer control is more comprehensive than many other states' programs.
Yes, adult children are among the most common family PCAs in Massachusetts. Siblings, aunts, uncles, cousins, and other relatives can also serve as PCAs. Spouses and parents of minor children are generally excluded.
Hours are determined through a standardized assessment that evaluates your needs across various Activities of Daily Living and Instrumental Activities of Daily Living. The assessment produces a specific number of weekly hours you're authorized to receive.
The PCA Workforce Council represents PCAs in Massachusetts and has negotiated benefits and wages for personal care attendants. This means PCAs in Massachusetts have access to health insurance, paid time off, and other benefits.
Massachusetts provides Skills Training for PCA consumers covering employment responsibilities. Personal Care Management agencies can assist with administrative tasks. The fiscal intermediary handles payroll and tax requirements.
Ready to Get Started in Massachusetts?
Check your eligibility for the Massachusetts PCA (Personal Care Attendant) Program today.
Call (800) 555-0001