If you’re caring for a loved one in York, PA and starting to notice they need help with bathing, dressing, or getting around safely, you’re not alone. Many families face this turning point and immediately ask the same critical question:
Is personal care covered by Medicaid?
The good news is that, yes, Medicaid can cover personal care services in Pennsylvania. But the process, the programs, and the approvals can feel like a maze. This 2025 guide will walk you through what’s covered, who qualifies, and how to take the next step with support from a local, trusted provider.
At Racheal Home Health Care Services, we’ve helped hundreds of families across Spring Garden Township, East York, and Downtown York access personal care through Medicaid. We’re here to help you, too.
What Is Personal Care?
Personal care is non-medical, hands-on support with the tasks we all do every day to live safely and comfortably at home.
That includes:
- Bathing and grooming
- Dressing and undressing
- Toileting and incontinence care
- Meal prep and light household help
- Getting in and out of bed or chairs
- Medication reminders
Care is typically delivered by a personal care aide, personal care assistant, or personal care attendant. These trained professionals help maintain safety, promote dignity, and improve the quality of life for people who can no longer manage all of these activities on their own.
At Racheal HHC, we match each client with a caregiver who’s been carefully vetted, trained, and selected based on personality and lifestyle fit.
Does Medicaid Cover Personal Care Services in York, PA?
Yes, it does. But coverage is not automatic and typically runs through a program called Community HealthChoices (CHC), which is Pennsylvania’s Medicaid waiver for people who need a nursing facility level of care but want to remain at home.
If your loved one is:
- Age 21 or older
- Receiving Medicaid (Medical Assistance)
- Has limited income and assets
- And needs help with at least two activities of daily living
then they may be eligible to receive Medicaid-funded personal care in the comfort of their own home in York County.
What Services Are Covered?
Under CHC, personal care services include help with:
- Bathing and hygiene
- Mobility and transfer support
- Medication reminders
- Light cooking and cleaning when related to safety and nutrition
- Supervision for cognitive safety
Support is typically delivered in a personal care home setting or directly in the client’s own house, which is often preferred.
What Isn’t Covered?
There are a few limitations worth knowing.
Medicaid generally does not cover:
- Services not approved in the care plan
- Companionship alone without a care need
- Housekeeping not tied to safety
- Beauty services like nail painting or hair styling
Still unsure? You’re not alone. Many families feel stuck at this step. That’s why we help you every step of the way, including preparing paperwork, coordinating with doctors, and managing communications with your assigned MCO.
Who Qualifies for Medicaid Personal Care in York?
Eligibility depends on:
- Financial need
- Health condition or physical limitations
- An official needs assessment through your Medicaid provider or local Area Agency on Aging
If your loved one struggles with two or more essential daily tasks like toileting, dressing, or getting in and out of bed, they likely meet functional eligibility.
If you’re not sure whether you or your parent qualifies, Racheal HHC can help you schedule the right assessments, fill out the Medicaid paperwork, and speak to the right case managers.
Why Racheal Home Health Care Is the York Leader in Personal Care
We’re not a call center or a national chain. We are York-born, York-based, and York-focused.
Our caregivers live and work in the same neighborhoods we serve from East Market Street to Springettsbury Township. Families trust us because we make Medicaid personal care simple, timely, and tailored.
Here’s what makes us different:
- Medicaid navigation support to walk you through the process
- Local personal care attendants trained and background-checked
- Live-in, hourly, and flexible care models
- Fast care starts, often within 48 hours of approval
- Culturally aware caregiver matching
- Coordination with skilled nursing, companionship, and pediatrics when needed
We’ve built our reputation on helping York families feel safe, respected, and cared for without getting lost in paperwork or red tape.
Real Story: Medicaid Care That Made a Difference
James, a retired teacher in Downtown York, needed support after heart surgery. His daughter contacted Racheal HHC, overwhelmed by Medicaid forms and unsure where to start.
We jumped in immediately helped her gather medical records, coordinated with his doctor, submitted his CHC paperwork, and matched James with a personal care aide who now visits him daily.
He continues living at home, independent and safe. His daughter finally gets to be a daughter again not just a caregiver.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Medicaid personal care services are available near me in York, PA?
Bathing, dressing, toileting, light meal prep, and mobility support are available through in-home personal care plans approved by Medicaid.
Can Racheal HHC help me apply?
Yes. We work closely with local MCOs and the York County Area Agency on Aging to assist you with every step.
How quickly can personal care start after approval?
Often within 48 hours. We’re committed to fast, compassionate service when you need it most.
What if my loved one also needs medical help?
We can add skilled nursing to your care plan and ensure full coordination. Learn more about our skilled nursing services.
Do you serve children or only adults?
We support both. Learn about our pediatrics care for children who qualify for in-home personal health care.
Need Help Navigating Medicaid Personal Care?
You don’t have to do this alone. If you’re unsure how to get started with Medicaid or need help evaluating your loved one’s eligibility, we’re just a phone call away.
Call 717-747-1159 or schedule your free consultation today. We proudly serve families across York County and nearby areas with respect, speed, and heart.
Let’s Take the First Step Together
Your loved one deserves more than just help; they deserve personal care that’s consistent, compassionate, and easy to access. Whether you’re just starting your Medicaid journey or ready to schedule care, Racheal Home Health Care Services is ready to walk with you.Explore our Medicaid-covered personal care services in York, PA or contact us now to start planning care that honors their life and your peace of mind.