A Guide to Self-Managed Care Options for Residents

Posted on April 14, 2025 by Contributed in Contributed

Figuring out Alberta home care services can be overwhelming. When you’re trying to figure out the balance between control and flexibility, taking an active role in the care of your loved ones really makes a big difference.

Designed for those who value independence, self-managed care programs provide the freedom to choose caregivers, manage schedules, and allocate resources as needed. If you’re exploring self-managed care in Calgary, it’s important to understand how these programs work and whether you or your loved one might be eligible to participate.

What Is Self-Managed Care?

Self-managed care is a government-funded program run by Alberta Health Services (AHS). It gives eligible individuals more options when it comes to home care. Prearranged services through public health providers are the norm, but in this instance, participants receive funding directly. They can then take that funding and hire caregivers themselves.

This allows for people you love to pursue a more hands-on approach. Participants are more like employers rather than simply participants. A case manager can help transition to a self-managed care model. That way, funding can be integrated into a personalized care plan to meet the needs of the individual.

Key Features of Self-Managed Care

Funding Flexibility: You receive a specific budget to cover wages and employer-related costs.
Caregiver Choice: You select your caregivers, whether professional aides, friends, or family members.
Schedule Autonomy: Care is delivered on your terms and timetable—not one imposed by an agency.
Support & Guidance: While you’re in control, AHS continues to provide oversight and support as needed.

For individuals who want tailored, culturally appropriate, or language-specific care, this flexibility is particularly valuable.

Who Is Eligible for Self-Managed Care in Alberta?

Self-managed care is available for residents in Alberta who meet certain criteria related to their health condition, living situation, and ability to manage their care. Eligibility is assessed so that care needs can benefit adequately from the program.

General Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for self-managed care, individuals must:

Be a resident of Alberta with a valid Alberta Health Care card
Be eligible for publicly funded home care through AHS
Require long-term, stable care in the home setting
Be capable of managing care (or have someone who can manage it for them)
Live in an environment that is safe for care to be delivered
Have unmet healthcare needs that are not fully addressed by existing services

Eligibility is determined through an in-person assessment by an AHS case manager. During the visit, the assessor will review your health needs, personal goals, and ability to manage the employer responsibilities that come with the program.

Benefits of Choosing a Self-Managed Care Program

Self-managed care comes with many benefits beyond basic service delivery. It gives your loved ones a sense of empowerment. They get a voice in their care and can develop their support system.

One of the key benefits of a self-managed program is the opportunity to receive ongoing personal care. Alberta Health Services provides multiple financial initiatives to support seniors in receiving care at home.

Greater Control Over Daily Life

Having the ability to receive the care you need on your terms and make daily life more manageable and less stressful is a huge benefit. You don’t have to wait for somebody to schedule you in.

More Personal and Consistent Care

Working with caregivers that you know is a huge plus. You can even hire a personal friend. That strengthens the mental and emotional bond between your loved ones and the ones that care for them.

Improved Satisfaction

Studies show that people receiving self-managed care experience more satisfaction because they get to make their own decisions.

Challenges and Considerations

The benefits of self-managed care are obvious, but there are also some challenges to consider. Taking control of your care comes with responsibility, and the funds provided are designed to provide home support services, personal care, and respite care.

Managing the Employer Role

As a self-managed care participant, you are technically an employer. That means you must handle hiring, payroll, employee deductions (like CPP and EI), and record-keeping. You may need to learn about employment standards, contracts, and insurance requirements.

Finding the Right Caregivers

Finding the right caregivers means conducting interviews, checking references, and being able to find new support if an existing provider decides to move on. Having a backup plan is really important.

Assembling a Support Network

Building a team of healthcare professionals, friends, and family members can help you receive the best care. Here’s who should be included on your care team:

Healthcare Professionals: Doctors, nurses, therapists, and other specialists who provide medical care and support. They help meet your needs and offer professional advice on managing your condition.
Family Members and Friends: The involvement of family and friends can make the care experience more personal and comforting.
Personal Support Workers: A trained PSW can assist with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, hygiene, and personal comfort.
Case Managers: Professionals who can help individuals navigate the healthcare system, access resources, coordinate care and make sure all aspects of your care are well-organized.

Having a care team in place can help individuals with self-managed care to:

Receive coordinated and comprehensive care
Access resources and support services
Make informed decisions about their care
Manage their care and support needs effectively

By building a robust support network, you can ensure that your self-managed care journey is as smooth and effective as possible.

Care Services and Providers

Understanding the services that providers can make available to you while self-managing care is crucial. It means you can tailor your care plans to meet your needs and preferences.

How to Apply for Self-Managed Care

If self-managed care is the right fit for you, you can reach out to Alberta Health Services. They will reimburse clients for care expenses through various financial programs. Here’s more about the step-by-step application process

Step-by-Step Application Process

Initial Contact: Call your local AHS Home Care office and request an assessment.
Assessment Visit: A case manager evaluates your eligibility, care needs, and living environment.
Care Planning: If approved, you’ll receive a care plan outlining your needs and the corresponding budget.
Set Up Employer Role: You’ll get help setting up payroll systems, contracts, and reporting tools.
Hire and Manage: Begin hiring staff, creating schedules, and tracking expenses in line with your care plan.

The Alberta government’s official page offers more detailed information on what to expect.

Tips for Managing Your Care Plan

Managing your care requires attention to detail and a proactive mindset once you are enrolled. Here are some tips for staying ahead of the game:

Stay Organised from the Start

Create a filing system—digital or paper—for contracts, pay stubs, receipts, and time sheets. Staying organized from day one will save you headaches later, especially during audits or funding reviews.

Know Your Legal Obligations

Remember that when you hire people, you are an employer responsible for meeting the requirements outlined by labour laws. You also need to pay taxes and give your caregivers a safe working environment. Consider hiring a bookkeeper or a payroll service to help you.

Communicate Regularly with AHS

Keep your case manager updated about anything that changes regarding your care plan. They are available to support you and make sure that the program continues to run smoothly.

Empowering Your Care Journey: Take Charge Today

Self-managed care isn’t just about handling daily tasks. It’s about owning your healthcare journey. For residents in Alberta looking for a self-managed care approach in Calgary, this model can be life-changing.

Whether you’re navigating your care for yourself or doing it for a loved one, self-managed options open the door to greater independence and personal agency. It’s a proactive approach that prioritizes connection, choices, and dignity. Those are all qualities that are often overlooked in traditional healthcare systems.

Taking the first steps can be intimidating, but once you get the right information, you can create the experience you want for your life. For additional insights, you can also consult resources like Canada’s official caregiver support services, which offer valuable information for families and individuals navigating care across the country.

Contributed posts are advertisements written by third parties who have paid Woman Around Town for publication.

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