What is ParticipantDirected Personal Support Services?
ParticipantDirected Personal Support Services (PDPS) are communitybased longterm care options that give individuals with disabilities or chronic health conditions the authority to design, manage, and oversee the support they receive. Rather than being assigned a caregiver by an agency, participants choose who provides assistance, what tasks are performed, and how money is spent.
Control over your supports is the first step toward true independence.
Core Benefits
- Choice and autonomy: Participants select caregivers who match their personality, cultural background, and communication style.
- Flexibility: Services can be adjusted daily to fit changing health needs or personal schedules.
- Personcentered care: Plans focus on the individuals goals, not on a onesizefitsall program.
- Potential cost savings: By eliminating administrative layers, more of the budget goes directly to care.
- Employment opportunities: Family members, friends, or community members can be hired as paid aides.
How It Works
The PDPS model follows four basic steps:
- Assessment & Planning: A qualified professional conducts a needs assessment and works with the participant to develop a personal support plan (PSP).
- Budget Allocation: A monthly budget is assigned based on the participants assessed needs and state guidelines.
- Hiring & Management: The participant (or a trusted proxy) recruits, trains, and supervises support workers. Payroll, taxes, and insurance are handled through a broker or selfmanaged payroll service.
- Ongoing Review: The PSP is reviewed regularly (typically every 612 months) to ensure services remain aligned with goals and health status.
Tip: Many states require a broker to help with payroll and compliance. Choose a broker that offers userfriendly online tools and responsive support.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligibility varies by jurisdiction, but common requirements include:
- Age 18 or older (some programs allow guardians to act for minors).
- A documented disability, chronic illness, or functional limitation that requires assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) or instrumental ADLs (IADLs).
- Demonstrated ability to manage a budget or a willing representative who can act on the participants behalf.
- Residence within the state or region that offers PDPS.
Getting Started
Follow these practical steps to launch your participantdirected plan:
- Contact your local agency: Reach out to the department of health, aging, or disability services for PDPS information.
- Complete an assessment: A case manager will evaluate your needs and help you draft a PSP.
- Choose a broker (if required): Compare fees, technology platforms, and customer reviews.
- Recruit staff: Advertise locally, ask for referrals, or consider hiring a trusted family member.
- Set up payroll: Your broker can handle tax withholdings, workers compensation, and benefit options.
- Monitor and adjust: Keep a simple log of hours, tasks, and costs; review it monthly with your case manager.
Additional Resources
These organizations provide tools, training, and advocacy for participants:
