When families begin exploring home care options in Alberta, one of the first questions that often arises is how to manage the cost of ongoing support.

In Alberta, there is a program designed to help families access home care services while maintaining flexibility in how care is arranged. This program is called Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI).

For families in Calgary and across Alberta, understanding how CDHCI works can help them plan support earlier and make informed decisions about care at home.

Client Directed Home Care Invoicing (CDHCI) is a funding option available through Alberta Health Services (AHS) that allows eligible individuals to receive financial support for home care services.

Instead of receiving all services directly through the public home care system, families can choose an approved provider to deliver the care outlined in their care plan.

This model allows families to:

• choose a home care provider that fits their needs
• maintain consistency with caregivers
• arrange services according to their daily routines
• personalize care in the way meets individual needs

For many families in Calgary, this approach offers a balance between professional support and maintaining independence at home.

Eligibility for CDHCI is determined through an assessment conducted by Alberta Health Services Home Care.

During this assessment, a case manager (usually a nurse or healthcare professional) evaluates the individual’s health status and daily living needs.

Eligibility is typically based on whether the person needs help with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) or Instrumental Activities of Daily Living (IADLs).

Examples include:

Personal care needs

• bathing or showering
• dressing
• toileting
• mobility or transferring

Daily living support

• meal preparation
• medication reminders
• supervision for safety
• support due to cognitive decline (such as dementia)
• companionship & respite
• homemaking

The case manager also considers factors such as:

• medical conditions
• risk of falls or injury
• ability to live safely at home
• availability of family support

If the individual meets Alberta Health Services’ criteria for home care support, the case manager may recommend CDHCI as a funding option.

Families cannot apply for CDHCI directly through an online form. The process begins with Alberta Health Services Home Care.

The general steps include:

1. Request a Home Care Assessment

Families can contact Alberta Health Services Home Care to request an assessment for a loved one or him/herself.

2. Complete a Care Needs Assessment

An AHS case manager will evaluate the individual’s health condition, daily functioning, and safety at home.

3. Determine Funding Eligibility

If the individual qualifies for publicly funded home care support, the case manager will outline a care plan including: recommended services, number of care hours, and type of support required.

Families can then suggest whether CDHCI funding is an appropriate option.

4. Choose an Approved Home Care Provider

If CDHCI is approved, families can choose a provider that meets the care plan requirements.

Many families appreciate this flexibility because it allows them to work with a provider who understands their needs, schedule, and preferences.

You can learn more about the types of home care services available through HeartNest Care here.

Reference: Alberta Health Services – Home Care Services

What does CDHCI stand for?

CDHCI stands for Client Directed Home Care Invoicing, a program in Alberta that allows eligible individuals to receive funding for home care services while choosing their own approved provider.

Who qualifies for CDHCI in Alberta?

Individuals who require help with daily activities such as personal care, mobility, or supervision for safety may qualify after an assessment by Alberta Health Services Home Care.

Is CDHCI only for low-income families?

No. The CDHCI program is not strictly income-based. Eligibility is primarily determined by the person’s care needs and safety at home, although a client contribution may apply in some cases.

What services can CDHCI funding cover?

Depending on the care plan, CDHCI funding may help cover services such as personal care, mobility assistance, companionship, and help with daily routines.

What documents are needed for a CDHCI assessment?

Families may be asked to provide basic information such as the individual’s Alberta Personal Health Number (PHN), medical history, medication list, and contact details for their family doctor.

Can families choose their own home care provider?

Yes. One of the key benefits of CDHCI is that families can choose an approved home care provider while still receiving funding through the program.