Rand’s Journey with PCA Choice and Preparing for CFSS
Rand sought services with Accra in preparation for the state's transition to CFSS
Rand’s journey with personal care services began unexpectedly right after high school, following a diving accident in which he broke his neck and suffered a permanent physical disability. However, with the help of Personal Care Assistance (PCA) services, Rand maintained a routine, a successful career and an independent life.
In 1980, when Minnesota introduced the PCA program, Rand was among the early adopters, billing the state directly for his caregivers’ services. PCA services have aided Rand with essential daily tasks like getting up in the morning, showering, and preparing meals.
With the State of Minnesota set to transition the PCA program to Community First Services & Supports (CFSS), Rand sought out a new partner and found Accra. He was drawn to Accra’s preparedness for CFSS and the resources offered, including a platform that connects caregivers and clients. He’s confident he will have a smooth transition to CFSS and reliable services as he navigates the next chapter in his life.
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Rand’s Story – Transcript
Rand: Hi, my name is Rand. My wife and I go for a walk at least once every day, and I spend a lot of time on my investments. I was a software engineer for Travelers Insurance Company.
I was in a diving accident right out of high school and and broke my neck at C4-5, and so after that, I needed PCA services, and so I need help getting up in the morning. So I get up in the morning, you know, shower and bowel-bladder care in the mornings, and then help throughout the day, maybe with getting lunch together or getting things to eat, it may be helping me with going to the restroom, helping me empty my leg bag and that kind of thing through the day.
I’ve been disabled for 46 years, so I’ve used personal care services for a long, long time.
In 1980, Minnesota started the PCA program, so you billed the state directly, and the state would pay your PCAs like a contractor. I used that for many years, and then they introduced the Provider Program, and now they’re starting the CFSS program.
The company I was with wasn’t prepared to deal with the new program, so they dropped out. That’s what prompted me to go to Accra. Really excited to get involved with CFSS.
I wanted to find a company that was progressive and really moving forward with the program and Accra seems like they’re right there. That’s where I want to be. They’ve got lots of people, and they also have a website that has, you know, like who’s looking for people and who’s looking for people to work for, so there’s an opportunity.
You have to take advantage of every opportunity you have right now because it’s really hard to find people, and I think a big organization just offers another opportunity to find somebody. And so far with Accra, it’s going great.