The Residential Care Assistance Program (RCAP) is a state-funded home care program in Indiana that provides financial assistance to eligible individuals residing in licensed residential care facilities and county homes. This program helps individuals who cannot live independently due to age, mental illness, or physical disability, but who do not require the intensive care of a nursing facility.
What Services Does RCAP Cover?
RCAP covers essential services such as room, board, and laundry within a structured residential setting. It also provides minimal administrative oversight and care coordination on behalf of eligible individuals. Funding is based on an approved per diem rate established by the Indiana Division of Aging. Importantly, RCAP is fully funded by the state of Indiana.
RCAP Eligibility Requirements: Who Qualifies?
To qualify for RCAP, individuals must meet specific criteria:
- Age, Blindness, or Disability: Be at least 65 years old, or be legally blind or disabled.
- Medicaid or SSI Recipient: Be a current Medicaid recipient or participate in the federal Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program.
- Residency: Currently reside in an approved RCAP facility.
RCAP Application Process: How to Apply
The RCAP application process is facilitated by the RCAP facility staff. Family members, guardians, or advocates can also assist applicants in completing the necessary paperwork. The completed RCAP application, along with all required supporting documentation, must be submitted simultaneously to the Division of Family Resources via email at [email protected]. Incomplete applications will be denied. Only one application per email will be accepted.
Becoming an RCAP Provider: Requirements and Process
Residential care facilities interested in becoming RCAP providers must meet specific requirements:
- Licensing: Be a licensed residential care facility by the Indiana State Department of Health (ISDH).
- Alternative Qualifications: Qualify as a Christian Science Home, an ISDH-licensed comprehensive nursing facility with residential beds, a County Home, or a residential program approved by the Division of Mental Health and Addiction (DMHA).
- Contract and Disclosure: Maintain an active RCAP contract with the State of Indiana and have a Disclosure for Housing with Services Establishment on file, if applicable. As of September 2018, these disclosure forms are submitted and maintained online via Access Indiana.
Financial Aspects of RCAP: Funding and Resident Liability
The Division of Family Resources verifies resident income and determines the resident’s liability, which must be paid to the RCAP provider. RCAP may supplement this amount based on the approved per diem rate. For eligible residents without income, RCAP fully funds room and board monthly based on the daily per diem.
Understanding RCAP: Indiana’s Commitment to Senior Care
RCAP plays a vital role in providing affordable residential care options for vulnerable individuals in Indiana. The program ensures that those who cannot live independently have access to safe and supportive housing, along with necessary care coordination services.
