Short answer
Yes, but only in limited cases
Only in limited cases. Ohio Admin. Code 5160-44-32(E) allows a spouse to be paid only if no other willing and able provider is available AND the state or its designee finds the person's health and safety can be ensured. The spouse must work through an agency or a participant-directed service via a financial management service, and the care must meet 'extraordinary care' requirements (form ODM 10372). Paid spouse care is capped at 40 hours a week unless an exception is granted, and can't be used for respite.
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The programs to ask about, documents to gather, and who to call in Ohio. We'll also email you if Ohio's rules or pay rates change.
Programs to ask about in Ohio
PASSPORT Waiver – Participant Direction (Choices Home Care Attendant Service and Consumer-Directed Personal Care Service)
Participant direction is available on Ohio's PASSPORT and MyCare waivers. The participant hires their own provider, who becomes certified through the Ohio Department of Aging (ODA).
How to apply
Ask your PASSPORT case manager, or contact the PASSPORT Administrative Agency for your county. You must be applying for or enrolled in PASSPORT to use participant direction.