Medicaid; direct division to apply for waiver to provide for coverage of consumer-directed personal care services.

HB 1562 directs Mississippi's Medicaid Division to apply for a federal waiver (EDCD Waiver) to cover home-based personal care services for elderly or disabled residents who need help with daily activities (like bathing or medication reminders). It would allow individuals or their families to hire and manage their own caregivers, requiring a state-appointed facilitator to assist with hiring, provide training, conduct initial home assessments, and monitor care quality through regular visits. Eligibility requires demonstrating medical need, and both employers (individuals or families) and caregivers must submit documentation and follow specific guidelines. The bill aimed to expand Medicaid-funded home care options but died in committee in February 2026.