Personal Preference Program (PPP)
New Jersey Self-Directed Services
Self-directed services are home and community-based services that help you or a loved one with personal care needs maintain independence. Self-directed services allow for personal choice in what services will best meet personal needs, who will deliver those services, and when and where services are provided within program guidelines.
The New Jersey Personal Preference Program (PPP) offers a way for NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid members, who qualify for the Personal Care Assistant (PCA) service, to remain in their home, active in their community, and does not require the use of a home health care agency.
PCA services are non-emergent, health related tasks delivered under NJ FamilyCare. Tasks include help with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental activities of daily living (iADLs) essential to the member's health and comfort, such as bathing, dressing, meal preparation, and light housekeeping.
The PPP requires greater individual responsibility, but in return, offers greater control, flexibility and choice over the services you receive. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact us!
Why Choose the Personal Preference Program?
PPP allows you to:
- Select the home care services that best suit your needs
- Hire workers, including trusted individuals like friends, relatives, or neighbors
- Plan services according to your individual needs
- Enjoy greater independence and control over your life
Eligibility
Applicants must be:
- NJ FamilyCare eligible. You can apply at your local County Social Service Agency or online
- Approved for Personal Care Assistant Services (PCA) and need PCA services for at least six months
- Able to self-direct services or have an Authorized Representative (AR) who can act on their behalf
How To Apply
If you are enrolled in a NJ FamilyCare Managed Care Organization MCO (also known as an HMO or health plan), please contact your MCO to request a PCA assessment for enrollment into PPP.
| Aetna Better Health of New Jersey |
1-855-232-3596 |
| Aetna Assure Premier Plus (D-SNP) |
1-844-362-0934 |
| Fidelis Care (formerly known as WellCare) |
1-855-642-6185 (select option #3, then option #2) |
| Horizon NJ Health |
1-855-465-4777 |
| UnitedHealthcare Community Plan |
1-800-645-9409 (select option #3) |
| Wellpoint (formerly known as Amerigroup) |
1-855-661-1996 (select option #1) |
Fiscal Intermediary (FI)
A fiscal intermediary helps you manage the financial responsibilities as well as provides Information and Assistance (I&A) services to support you with being an employer in the PPP.
Supports for you, the employer:
- Pay employer fees, taxes
- Process payments for employer taxes and fees
- Arrange for required Workers’ Compensation insurance
- Create a backup plan
- Process payments for goods and services you use, within program rules
Supports for your worker:
- Process payroll for your workers
- Share tips and tricks for finding and hiring workers
Currently, the PPP’s FI is Public Partnerships LLC (PPL).
PPL Customer Service Contact Information:
Current PPP Participants
If you are on PPP and require further assistance or have a question, please click here for more information.
How are we doing?
We value your feedback! Please let us know by sending us an email to the PPP mailbox: MAHS.PPP@dhs.nj.gov
Training / Workshops
An Overview of the Personal Preference Program
General PPP FAQ
Fiscal Intermediary Transition (FIT)
Over time, MCOs may transition to new FI vendors. For updates on the transition process, please refer to the following:
PPP FI Transition
FIT Frequently Asked Question May 2024
FIT Community Workgroup
The PPP team conducts monthly meetings on the first Wednesday of each month to guide the FI transition process and develop best practices for self-directed services.
Join our Community Workgroup!
Access Past Meetings
Workgroup Schedule for 2024
State Program Office Contact Information
NJ Division of Medical Assistance and Health Services
P.O. Box 712 Attention: Personal Preference Program
Trenton, NJ 08625
Telephone: 609-631-2481
MAHS.PPP@dhs.nj.gov
