Foster care, adult; per diem
HCPCS code
Name of the Procedure:
Foster Care, Adult; Per Diem (HCPCS S5140)
Common Name(s): Adult Foster Care
Technical/Medical Term: S5140
Summary
Adult Foster Care is a service model designed to provide a supportive and structured living environment for adults with medical, mental health, or developmental needs. Clients receive care and supervision in a family-like setting as opposed to institutional care.
Purpose
Adult Foster Care aims to provide a safe, nurturing environment for adults who are unable to live independently due to health conditions or disabilities. The primary goal is to enhance the quality of life and ensure the well-being of these individuals through daily support and supervision.
Indications
- Individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities
- Adults with mental health needs
- Elderly individuals needing constant care and supervision
- Adults recovering from surgeries or significant medical treatments who cannot yet live independently
Preparation
Before placement in adult foster care, a comprehensive assessment of the individual's medical and psychosocial needs is required. This may include:
- Medical evaluations
- Psychological assessments
- Social and functional needs assessments
Procedure Description
- Assessment: A multidisciplinary team conducts thorough evaluations of the client's needs.
- Placement: Based on the assessments, a suitable foster care home is identified.
- Care Planning: A personalized care plan is developed, outlining daily routines, medical care, and special needs.
- Monitoring: Ongoing oversight ensures the care plan is followed and adjustments are made as needed.
- Daily Life: The client engages in everyday activities within the foster home, including meals, personal care, social activities, and medical management.
Duration
Long-term, often indefinite depending on the individual's needs and progress. Care can be indefinite or until the individual can transition to a more independent setting.
Setting
Adult Foster Care is provided in licensed foster homes or residential care settings, which are residential family homes integrated within communities.
Personnel
- Licensed Foster Care Providers
- Case Managers
- Healthcare professionals (e.g., Nurses, Social Workers)
- Direct Care Staff
Risks and Complications
- Risk of abuse or neglect (mitigated by strict licensing and monitoring)
- Possible medical emergencies due to the client’s health conditions
- Emotional and psychological adjustment challenges
- Family-related complications
Benefits
- Safe and supportive living environment
- Improved quality of life
- Personalized care and attention that cannot be provided in large institutions
- Encouragement of social interactions and community integration
- Enhanced independence and self-esteem
Recovery
Not typically applicable, as Adult Foster Care is often a long-term arrangement. However, in case of recovery from a temporary condition:
- Regular health and progress evaluations
- Adjustments to the care plan as the individual's condition improves
- Coordination with medical and mental health services
Alternatives
- Institutional care (e.g., Nursing Homes)
- Pros: Higher level of medical supervision
- Cons: Less personal, higher risk of isolation
- Home health care or in-home services
- Pros: Client stays in own home, more comfort
- Cons: May not meet all supervision and social needs
- Assisted living facilities
- Pros: More independence
- Cons: Can be costly, may still require additional supervision
Patient Experience
Clients may experience a sense of family and community in a foster care setting. Adjustment varies, with some individuals needing time to acclimate to new routines and caregivers. Comfort measures include a personalized care plan, regular check-ins, and available support services to manage physical and emotional needs.