Consumer

Directed

Care

(Self-Directed)

Find out if it’s right for you or a loved one

How does it work?

CLICK BELOW TO WATCH FIRST!

Self-direction lets people with intellectual or developmental disabilities, chronic illness, or those who are aging, get care in their home. You choose who provides your support, and where and when you receive it.

If that sounds better than using an agency or moving to a care facility, we agree!

Let's start your journey.

How you enroll in a self-direction (also known as consumer-directed) program depends on if you’ve already started the process.

1. Learn about self-direction

We get it, this is complicated! We’re here to help you learn about self-direction and decide if it’s a good choice for you.

Self-direction lets you stay in your home and community, supported by caregivers you know and trust, maybe a family member or a friend who’s already helping out. You get more choice and control than using an agency or nursing home.

2. Enroll in Medicaid

If you’re not already enrolled in Medicaid, this is the first step. Medicaid is healthcare funded by federal and state government. It pays for medical care for people with low income and those with special healthcare needs.

3. Enroll in a Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Program

Once you’re enrolled in Medicaid, the next step is to enroll into the Consumer Directed Services program.

You can call the state and make your own referral to the Missouri CDS program — or we can do it for you!

Just answer a few quick questions to help us confirm your eligibility, and we’ll take care of the rest.

4. Enroll with a service provider (Caring Companions) and let us know who you would like to hire.

After your referral is completed, the State will call you to schedule your assessment if you are entering the program or will call you to confirm the switch to Caring Companions if you are currently in the program and switching to Caring Companions.

When you sign up with us, we’ll help set you up as your caregiver’s employer

✨Switch to Caring Companions!

Are you currently enrolled in the CDS program with another and looking to switch? We’d be delighted to have you join Caring Companions Consumer Directed Services!

Please complete the form at the link below to get started, and we’ll guide you through the next steps to make the switch smooth and easy.

Your Name

Phone Number

Apply Now

Hove any Questions? Call Us Now!

💬 Frequently Asked Questions – CDS Program

What is the CDS program?

The Consumer Directed Services (CDS) program allows you to get help at home with daily tasks while staying independent. Best of all, you get to choose your own caregiver, such as a family member or friend, who can be paid for their time.

Who qualifies for the CDS program?

You may qualify if you:

✓ Are 18 or older

✓ Have active Missouri Medicaid

✓ Need help with daily activities like bathing, dressing, meals, or mobility

✓ Live in your own home (not in a nursing home)

Can I choose a family member as my caregiver?

Yes! You can choose a trusted family member or friend. However, legal guardians and spouses are not allowed to be paid caregivers through the program.

What kind of help can I get?

Caregivers can assist with:

✓ Bathing, dressing, grooming

✓ Meal preparation and feeding

✓ Light housekeeping and laundry

✓ Medication reminders

✓ Errands and grocery shopping

How much will my caregiver get paid?

Rates vary by agency and funding, but typically our caregivers earn $14–$16 per hour. We will discuss exact pay during the enrollment process.

How do I apply?

To apply to receive care through the CDS program start here. To apply to be a caregiver in the CDS program start here.

What if I don't have anyone to be my caregiver?

No worries! We can help connect you with qualified, caring attendants in your area.

Who pays the caregiver?

Our agency handles all the paperwork, payroll, and background checks. You get to direct the care, and we take care of the rest!

Hear From Our Community

What People Are

Saying About Caring Companions CDS

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“Caring Companions made it easy to care for my grandma while I’m in college.” — Maya S., Caregiver

I'm a full-time student and was already helping my grandma every day. With Caring Companions, I was able to become her paid caregiver and still keep up with school. They handled the paperwork and answered all my questions. Their clocking in system is easy. It’s been a blessing for both of us.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

“The best decision we’ve made for my mom’s care.” — Andy R., Son of Consumer

We didn’t want my mom going into a facility. CDS through Caring Companions let us keep her at home, and now my sister is her paid caregiver. They made the enrollment fast and stress-free. Real people who truly care.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"Been in CDS for years had a few other companies but caring companions is way better. When I call they actually answer and help me before I'd be on hold forever or never get a call back. now it's easy and they treat me right."

— Walter M., CDS Consumer.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

"I’m 20 and have a disability so I need help with some daily stuff. CDS lets me get care at home and keep my independence. Caring Companions made it super easy to get started. they don’t treat me like a number, they actually care."

— Jordan R., CDS Consumer