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 the chest that monitors heart rhythms and delivers electrical shocks to correct arrhythmias.

The Statewide Respite Care Program aims to provide relief to family caregivers by offering temporary care services for functionally impaired individuals, thereby helping to prevent the need for costly institutional placements. By increasing the respite care services for those with specific medical needs, the bill seeks to enhance support for caregivers and improve the quality of care for individuals with significant health challenges.

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