The Personal Emergency Response System (PERS) is an in-home, 24-hour electric support system with two-way verbal and electronic communication with an emergency control center. PERS enables an elderly, infirm or homebound participant to secure immediate help in the event of a physical, emotional or environmental emergency.

PERS is specifically designed for high-risk participants whose needs have been carefully determined based on their level of medical vulnerability, functional impairment and social isolation. PERS is not intended to be a universal benefit. The PCSP/CC NURSE must verify that the participant is capable, both physically and mentally, of operating the PERS unit.

PERS must be included in the participant's written PCSP.

PERS providers must contact each participant at least once per month to test the system's operation. The provider shall maintain a log of test calls that includes the date and time of the test, specific test results, corrective actions and outcomes.

A log of all participant calls received must be maintained by the emergency response center. The log must reflect the date, time and nature of the call and the response initiated by the center. All calls must be documented in the participant's record. See Section 214.000 for other documentation requirements.

One (1) unit of service equals one (1) month. PERS is limited to a maximum of twelve (12) units per year.

The installation of PERS will be allowed once per lifetime or period of eligibility. Claims submitted for the installation of PERS should use procedure code S5160. Procedure code S5160 may be billed for participants who are accessing PERS services for their first time or for the current period of re-eligibility for ARChoices Waiver Services. In the event of extenuating circumstances that result in the need for reinstallation, the provider may contact the Division of Aging, Adult and Behavioral Health Services for extension of the benefit.