How to apply for Participant Directed Services (PDS)

Who it's for

Participant Directed Services is a self-direction option within Kentucky Medicaid's Home and Community Based Services waivers. It is not a standalone benefit you apply for on its own — it is available to people who qualify for and are enrolled in one of Kentucky's Medicaid waivers (Home and Community Based, Supports for Community Living, Acquired Brain Injury, or Michelle P.). For people in an eligible waiver, PDS lets the participant choose, hire, train, schedule, and manage their own non-medical caregivers — including hiring family or friends — instead of using an agency, with help from a support broker to build a service plan and budget. The value of PDS is control over who provides your care, not an additional dollar benefit on top of the waiver.

What you'll need

• Enrollment (current or pending) in an eligible Kentucky Medicaid waiver: Home and Community Based, Supports for Community Living, Acquired Brain Injury, or Michelle P.
• Work with your waiver case manager or support broker to elect Participant Directed Services

Where to apply

Renewals

ongoing (tied to waiver enrollment)