Frequently Asked Questions re APD Wage Survey
Most AFH providers have received a letter from APD informing us about the need to complete a survey on caregiver wages. One of UOPA’s goals is to provide timely and accurate information to AFH providers so we have developed this Q&A.
Please reach out with additional questions or drop them in the comments below and we will do our best to answer them.
Q: What is APD’s letter about?
A: APD’s October 1 Provider Alert informs us that they are conducting a wage survey as directed by the Legislature. When the Legislature approved rate increases for APD AFH providers this year, it included a budget note directing the Department to conduct a survey of caregiver pay twice over the next biennium. A budget note is an attachment to approved funding that shows the Legislature’s intent and gives direction to state agencies. A screenshot of the budget note is included here.
Q: Who is APD saying must fill this survey out?
A: APD’s notice says you must complete the survey if you are an APD Medicaid provider and at least twenty percent of your census included a Medicaid resident as of June 30, 2025.
Q: What happens if I don’t complete the survey?
A: We don’t know what action APD might take. The notice from APD also warns that “providers who do not respond may be restricted in their ability to serve Medicaid eligible individuals.”
Q: What do I need to submit?
A: A screenshot of the survey is included in this post. Other than listing your provider information, there are three main questions to answer: 1. Are Medicaid consumers 20% or more of your census as of June 30, 2025? For example, if you have 5 or fewer residents and at least one is Medicaid, then your answer should be Yes. 2. Average Hourly Caregiver Base Pay. It is important to note that “base pay” would typically exclude things like night shift or weekend differentials, bonuses, overtime, or benefits. 3. Average Hourly Medication Aide Base Pay. Most adult foster homes don’t have medication aides, but this survey is going to other types of providers.
Q: But I’m the only “caregiver” and am not paid hourly!
A: It is frustrating that this survey doesn’t acknowledge how common this is. We recommend putting “Not applicable. Provider is sole caregiver.” You can also list in the section called “Other information” any additional notes about caregiver pay.
Q: What is next?
A: UOPA has been in contact with APD about this and we are encouraging more communication and transparency on this process. We will keep you updated as we learn more.
