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Find answers to common questions about eligibility, services, and how to get started.
For Families
Can respite care be tailored to my child’s specific needs and routine?
Yes, Respite4kids is designed to be flexible and individualized to support your child's unique and daily routine.
Can respite services be provided overnight?
Yes, respite can be provided overnight.
- The latest service documentation MUST end at 11:59 PM (Example: 7:59PM -11:59PM)
- Sleep time hours cannot be counted in regulation with our Sleep Time Policy Agreement
Can we start respite services without respite on the care plan?
No. We must have respite services reflected on the care plan at all times. The Care plan must include the Reason for respite services, Frequency and the duration for services. The allotted respite service limit is 60 days per year. Care plans should be reviewed and updated at least every three months with your care coordinator. A release of information is required annually, or any time there is a change in care coordinator.
Do I need to notify anyone before scheduling my first respite service?
After an approved review of the youth’s care plan and release of information, your Respite4Kids portal will notify you when services are approved to begin. A new care plan is required every three months, and a release of information must be updated annually or whenever there is a change in care coordinator.
How are respite providers screened, trained, and approved?
Providers undergo required background checks and program approved training including first aid training, de-escalation training, trauma informed care training, and Ready for Respite training.
How do I apply or get started with respite services?
Create account with Respite4kids to begin the process.
Get StartedHow many days a week can a youth receive respite services?
Services must be coordinated in accordance with the youth’s Care Plan schedule. If the frequency of services provided does not align with the approved Care Plan, respite payments may be withheld and will be subject to audit.
How many youth can a provider service at a time?
A provider can service up to 3 youth max per service, with a 3-year age gap per group (sibling exception).
Is a home visit conducted to ensure the youth’s home is a safe environment?
No, the youth’s parent or guardian is responsible for ensuring the youth’s home is a safe environment.
What are some Respite Rules and Regulations?
- Respite can NOT be used during the guardians work hours. Respite is NOT a substitution for babysitting
- All services should align with the youths careplan, emergency services are allowed, please contact Respite4Kids@unisonhealth.org
- A provider can service up to 3 youth max per service, with a 3-year age gap per group (sibling exception)
- Each approved youth gets 60 days of service per year (renews Jan 1st of each year)
- Each service is paid per diem, with a minimum of 4 hours of service per day
- The latest service documentation MUST end at 11:59 PM (Example: 7:59PM - 11:59PM)
- Respite Providers cannot provide services to youth with the same address
- Respite4Kids has the discretion to release any provider from our program for any reason at anytime
What are the requirements of a Guardian?
- Complete referral application and make sure the youth is enrolled in OhioRISE
- Guardian must sign the Respite4Kids – Guardian Consent form in order to use our providers through The Ohio Respite Alliance
- Guardians can choose a Respite Provider from our approved Respite Provider profiles or can bring on a family or friend who can get approved through our Respite Provider process
- Guardians must approve all services in-order for the Respite Provider to be paid through the Respite4Kids program
- Guardians must work with the Respite4Kids admin and their care coordinators to make sure all documentation is complete and up-to-date
What does a family do if they have issues with a Respite Provider?
They can reach out to their care coordinator or to anyone on the Respite4Kids team to raise concerns. Families can choose to no longer utilize a respite provider at any time for any reason.
What is respite care?
Short-term, planned support that gives parents and a caregiver a break, while ensuring children remain supported and cared for. It’s designed to reduce stress, prevent burnout and help families stay strong during challenging moments.
Where and when can respite services take place?
Respite services may be provided in the youth’s home, within the community, or in the approved respite provider’s home, in accordance with program guidelines and family preferences.
Who can I contact if I have questions or need additional support?
Respite4kids@unisonhealth.org is happy to answer any questions.
Who qualifies for services?
Approved youth enrolled in the OhioRISE program.
