Missouri Program Guide
Missouri Program GuideConsumer Directed Services (CDS)
How Missouri's Consumer Directed Services (CDS) lets people on Medicaid direct their own personal care, including hiring a family member other than a spouse or legal guardian.
Run by the Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services. Based on official state sources, last checked October 29, 2026.
The Program
What CDS Is
- Consumer Directed Services (CDS) is personal care assistance run through the Division of Senior and Disability Services (DSDS) for people who can direct their own care and live independently.
- It provides help with daily activities as an alternative to nursing facility placement for people with a physical disability.
- Participants pick an HCBS provider enrolled as a CDS provider, and direct the attendant who gives their care.
Eligibility
Who Can Qualify
- Be able to self-direct your care.
- Be in active Medicaid status with an appropriate Medicaid eligibility code (spenddown cases may qualify in months the spenddown is met).
- Meet nursing facility level of care.
- Not have been involved in Medicaid fraud.
Caregivers
Who Provides the Care
- The attendant may be a family member, but cannot be the participant's spouse or legal guardian.
Getting Started
How to Apply
- Confirm active Missouri Medicaid.
- Ask DSDS for a home and community based services assessment.
- Choose an enrolled CDS provider and the attendant you want to hire.
Contacts
Who to Call
Home Care Hound does not run CDS or decide eligibility. If you would rather have a licensed home care agency send a caregiver, Home Care Hound can look for a verified agency near you.
Sources
Official Sources
Program rules change. Always confirm details with the agencies above before making decisions.