NEHHC - Trustees - Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, if the trust expressly includes home health care services. In our experience, most do. While a SNT cannot be used for food, clothing, shelter, nor for items that would be covered by public assistance, many NEHHC in home services are not covered by MaineCare or Medicaid, and thus, in theory, would qualify.

Recent court decisions make careful crafting of the Supplemental Needs Trust (also called Special Needs Trust) more important than ever. While we are not attorneys, we will work cooperatively to set up a plan that is in compliance with current Maine law.

Private pay means that the cost of NEHHC services is paid by the client, his or her family, through a trust fund, or through private insurance, such as long term disability insurance.

Unlike many home health care providers, New England Home Health Care is state licensed, requiring us to adhere to rigorous staffing and safety standards. Most of our home healthcare staff are CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) with at least 150 hours of medical training. A small percentage are PCA / PSSs (Personal Care Assistants / Personal Support Specialists) with 40-50 hours of medical training. In addition, yearly education is a requirement for each NEHHC employee. CNAs need 12 hours of education each year, PCAs 10 each year.

While hiring a friend or neighbor to care for a grantee may seem like a good solution, it is actually fraught with many complications.

New England Home Health Care providers are fully insured and bonded and sufficiently trained to handle each client's needs. All care plans are monitored by a supervising RN, who visits each home at least once per month. NEHHC also handles all payroll, holiday scheduling, and has relief staff on hand to cover to any caregiver in case of sickness or family emergency. NEHHC providers must adhere to a clear code of ethics, ensuring that our staff, while appreciated, stay on a caring but professional basis with clients.

While a trustee could theoretically "save money" by hiring privately, the quality of care, liability, logistical, personnel considerations are often no bargain.


	Contact / About NEHHC	FAQs Pediatric Care Are New England Home Health Care services covered by a Special Needs Trust or Supplemental Needs Trust (SNT) in the State of Maine? What specific services does NEHHC provide? What training and certification do NEHHC caregivers have? What is the advantage of choosing NEHHC over hiring an unlicensed caregiver? Are New England Home Health Care services covered by a Special Needs Trust or Supplemental Needs Trust (SNT) in the State of Maine? Yes, if the trust expressly includes home health care services. In our experience, most do. While a SNT cannot be used for food, clothing, shelter, nor for items that would be covered by public assistance, many NEHHC in home services are not covered by MaineCare or Medicaid, and thus, in theory, would qualify. Recent court decisions make careful crafting of the Supplemental Needs Trust (also called Special Needs Trust) more important than ever. While we are not attorneys, we will work cooperatively to set up a plan that is in compliance with current Maine law. (Back to top) What specific services does NEHHC provide? Private pay means that the cost of NEHHC services is paid by the client, his or her family, through a trust fund, or through private insurance, such as long term disability insurance. Assistance in bathing and dressing Toileting assistance Medication dispensing and monitoring Exercise therapy Transportation to medical appointments Feeding or meal preparation Laundry/light housekeeping Companionship and emotional support Informal education and support of family members (Back to top) What training and certification do NEHHC caregivers have? Unlike many home health care providers, New England Home Health Care is state licensed, requiring us to adhere to rigorous staffing and safety standards. Most of our home healthcare staff are CNAs (Certified Nursing Assistants) with at least 150 hours of medical training. A small percentage are PCA / PSSs (Personal Care Assistants / Personal Support Specialists) with 40-50 hours of medical training. In addition, yearly education is a requirement for each NEHHC employee. CNAs need 12 hours of education each year, PCAs 10 each year. (Back to top) What is the advantage of choosing NEHHC over hiring an unlicensed caregiver? While hiring a friend or neighbor to care for a grantee may seem like a good solution, it is actually fraught with many complications. New England Home Health Care providers are fully insured and bonded and sufficiently trained to handle each client's needs. All care plans are monitored by a supervising RN, who visits each home at least once per month. NEHHC also handles all payroll, holiday scheduling, and has relief staff on hand to cover to any caregiver in case of sickness or family emergency. NEHHC providers must adhere to a clear code of ethics, ensuring that our staff, while appreciated, stay on a caring but professional basis with clients. While a trustee could theoretically "save money" by hiring privately, the quality of care, liability, logistical, personnel considerations are often no bargain. (Back to top)