Among the first in the state to offer self-directed personal care, Consumer Direct was established in Montana in 2000.  The program is specifically intended to allow individuals with health care needs to remain in their homes and communities and to avoid placement in an institution.

This program is designed for individuals who are capable of directing their own personal care services or appointing a Personal Representative to act on their behalf. 

Montana program requirements include:

• Eligibility for Montana Medicaid
• The need for assistance with activities of daily
  living such as:
  

  - medication reminders	- transfers
  - bathing & hygiene	- dressing & grooming
  - ambulation	- eating
  - toileting, bowel & bladder care

• The need for assistance with instrumental activities of daily living such as:
  

  - meal preparation	- light housekeeping
  - necessity shopping	- medical escort

• Authorization by a health care professional that assistance is necessary
• Completion of an assessment for placement in the program
• There is no age requirement in the state of Montana