In-Home Care Services in Oregon

Yes! Oregon allows family members to be paid caregivers under most Medicaid programs, including State Plan Personal Care, Community First Choice (K Plan), and through Brokerage services. Some restrictions apply (for example, spouses cannot be paid through certain programs), but most family relationships are allowed. We'll help you determine if you qualify.

Oregon home care workers are paid according to the union contract negotiated with SEIU 503. As of 2024, the base rate is approximately $18-20 per hour, with higher rates in some counties and for specialized care. Rates are set by the state and updated annually. You'll be paid as a W-2 employee with taxes withheld and workers' compensation coverage.

Oregon requires all home care workers to complete orientation training through SEIU 503 Training Partnership. This includes basic safety, infection control, client rights, and caregiving skills. The training is free and can often be completed online. You must also register with the Oregon Home Care Commission's Home Care Worker Registry. We coordinate all of this for you!

Yes. All of the programs we work with are Medicaid-funded, so your loved one must be enrolled in Oregon Health Plan (OHP). If they're not currently enrolled but think they may qualify, we can provide guidance on how to apply. They'll also need a needs assessment from APD (Aging and People with Disabilities), ODDS (Office of Developmental Disability Services), or a Brokerage to authorize in-home care services.

Once your loved one has an approved care plan with authorized hours, we can typically get you started within 2-3 weeks. This includes time for background checks, completing required training, and getting you enrolled in our systems. Some cases can move faster, especially if you've already completed training or have background clearances from previous work.

APD (Aging and People with Disabilities) serves seniors and adults with physical disabilities. ODDS (Office of Developmental Disability Services) serves adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities. Brokerages are contracted support service organizations that work with ODDS clients to coordinate services.

Atlas Community Care works with all three systems, so no matter which one your loved one qualifies under, we can help you become their paid caregiver.

Oregon home care workers are represented by SEIU 503, which negotiates wages and benefits with the state. Union membership is optional, but you'll benefit from the wages and working conditions the union has negotiated whether or not you choose to join. The union also provides the required training at no cost to you.

Family caregivers can provide personal care services (ADLs) like bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, transfers, and mobility assistance. You can also provide homemaker services (IADLs) like meal preparation, light housekeeping, laundry, shopping, medication reminders, and help with community activities. The specific services you'll provide depend on what's authorized in your loved one's care plan.