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Community First Choice (CFC) – EBD Waiver

This waiver supports Medicaid-eligible adults who need help with daily living activities due to physical or cognitive challenges. Through the Community First Choice option, individuals can receive care in the comfort of their own home or community, rather than in a facility. At IRN Home Care, we help your loved one stay safe, supported, and independent at home through personal care, homemaking, and respite services.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for services under the EBD Waiver, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • Be enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid)
  • Qualify under the EBD Waiver
  • Need help with two or more daily living tasks (ADLs or IADLs)
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Services Covered Under CFC

Community First Choice (CFC) Program – EBD Waiver at IRN Home Care is designed to help individuals receive the care they need while remaining in their own homes and communities, rather than in institutional settings. Our services are comprehensive and tailored to the needs of each individual. Below are the key services covered under the EBD Waiver:

Service Personal Care
Personal Care

Hands-on support with daily activities (ADLs) so you can stay safe and independent at home. This includes bathing, dressing, grooming, toileting, eating, transferring/ambulation, and gentle reminders or supervision to prevent falls.

Service Homemaker services
Homemaker services

Help with household routines that keep your home clean and comfortable. Services may include light housekeeping, laundry and linens, meal planning and preparation, dishes and kitchen clean-up, grocery shopping, essential errands, and general home organization.

Service Health maintenance activities
Health maintenance activities

Nurse-directed tasks provided according to your care plan to support health at home. Examples include medication reminders, vital sign or blood-glucose checks, catheter or bowel/bladder programs and more.

Service Respite care
Respite care

Provides temporary, short-term relief for primary caregivers, allowing them time to rest and recharge while ensuring their loved ones continue to receive high-quality care in a safe and supportive environment.

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FAQ

Find answers to frequently asked questions about CFC in Colorado, including eligibility, services, and how to apply.

What is the Community First Choice (CFC) Program?

The Community First Choice (CFC) Program is a Medicaid State Plan benefit that helps individuals who need a nursing facility level of care receive services in their home or community instead of an institution. Unlike traditional waivers, CFC is an entitlement — if you qualify, you can receive services without being placed on a waitlist. CFC supports tasks such as personal care, homemaker services, health maintenance activities, supervision, delegation, and emergency response systems—helping people live independently and safely in their homes.

Who qualifies for the CFC Program?

To qualify, you must:

  • Be enrolled in Health First Colorado (Medicaid).
  • Live in or require a facility level of care (needing help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, eating, mobility, or supervision for cognitive needs).
  • Prefer to receive care at home or in the community rather than an institution.
What services are provided under the CFC Program?

Covered services may include:

  • Personal care, Homemaker services, Health maintenance activities, Respite care.
How do I apply for the CFC Program?

Whether you are a new applicant or returning to services, call us at (720) 445-8863 and our team will be happy to assist and guide you through the enrollment process. We’ll coordinate the assessment, eligibility verification, and your care plan.

What is the difference between the CFC Program and HCBS Waivers?
  • CFC is an entitlement — anyone who meets Medicaid and care level requirements can enroll (no waitlist). HCBS Waivers are limited, population-specific programs that may have waitlists and offer additional specialized services like behavioral therapy, residential supports, employment services, or complementary therapies.
  • Many services currently delivered through HCBS will shift to CFC starting July 1, 2025, but waiver programs will still cover specialized supports not included in CFC.
Can family members provide care under the CFC Program?

Yes. Through models like Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) or In-Home Support Services (IHSS), individuals can hire and manage their own caregivers—including certain family members. Spouses, parents of minor children, or legal guardians may have restrictions depending on the program, but adult children, siblings, and relatives often can be hired.

What are the benefits of the CFC Program?
  • No waitlists – services are available to all who qualify.
  • More independence – receive support at home or in the community instead of an institution.
  • Family involvement – flexibility to hire and train caregivers you trust, including family members.
  • Expanded services – skills training, transition assistance, home supports, and emergency response systems.
  • Stronger federal support – more funding ensures broader access and higher-quality supports statewide. and offer additional specialized services like behavioral therapy, residential supports, employment services, or complementary therapies.

Find Out More About CFC

If you're ready to join a home care agency that truly cares, contact us today for a free consultation.