This bill amends the Statewide Respite Care Program to require a 10 percent increase in the maximum amount of respite care services available to eligible individuals with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator who are enrolled in NJ FamilyCare. Specifically, the maximum annual respite services for these individuals will be set at $7,215.59, compared to the standard maximum of $6,559.63 for other eligible persons. The bill defines an implantable cardioverter defibrillator as a battery-powered device surgically placed in an individual's chest that monitors heart rhythms and delivers electrical shocks to correct arrhythmias.

The Statewide Respite Care Program aims to provide relief to family or other unpaid caregivers by offering temporary support for the care of functionally impaired individuals, thereby helping to prevent the need for costly institutional placements. The bill emphasizes the importance of supporting caregivers and ensuring that those with specific medical needs, such as those with an implantable cardioverter defibrillator, receive adequate respite care services.

Statutes affected:
Introduced: 30:4F-8, 30:4F-12