Can I Get Paid to Care for My Child with GAPP in Atlanta? A Simple Guide for Parents

Taking care of a child with complex medical needs is a full-time commitment, and many families in the Atlanta metro area don’t realize that they may be eligible to receive financial compensation for the care they are already providing. Through the Georgia Pediatric Program (GAPP), qualifying parents or close relatives can be hired to provide Personal Care Services (PCS) for their children at home.

​If you are a parent living in Tucker, Hapeville, Jonesboro, McDonough, Forest Park, or anywhere in the Atlanta area, here is how the program works and how you can get started.

​What is GAPP?

​The Georgia Pediatric Program (GAPP) is a Medicaid-funded program designed to support medically fragile children under the age of 21. It provides skilled nursing and personal care support to ensure children with complex medical conditions can thrive in the comfort of their own homes rather than in an institution.

​Can Parents Really Be Paid to Provide Care?

​Yes. If your child has been approved for GAPP Personal Care Services (PCS) hours, you can be hired by a GAPP-approved nursing agency to serve as your child's PCS caregiver.

​How it works: You are not paid directly by Medicaid. Instead, you become an employee of a licensed GAPP agency that manages the case, handles your payroll, taxes, and W-2s, and provides the necessary training.

​What you provide: PCS caregivers help with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, feeding, hygiene, and mobility assistance.

​Compensation: Pay rates vary and can be discussed at the time of approval.

​How to Get Started in Atlanta

​If you are currently caring for a child with a medical condition in communities like Jonesboro or McDonough, the first step is ensuring your child has an active Medicaid ID and an authorized GAPP care plan.

​Confirm Eligibility: Your child must be under 21, a Medicaid recipient, and have a physician’s order confirming the medical necessity for in-home care.

​Find a Partner Agency: Partner with Anchor Healthcare for support with your child. 404-907-6905

​Complete Onboarding: Once you apply, the agency will guide you through a background check, drug screening, and a required training program.

​Create a Care Plan: Anchor Healthcare will work with you and your child's doctor to design a schedule that fits your family's needs, ensuring that care hours do not overlap with school or other services.

​Why Local Support Matters

​Whether you are located in Hapeville, Forest Park, or Tucker, working with an agency that understands the local landscape can make the application process much smoother. Many families are overwhelmed by the paperwork required for medical necessity determinations. A good agency will handle the coordination with doctors, submit the GAPP paperwork on your behalf, and ensure you remain compliant with ongoing documentation requirements.

​Do you have questions about your child's eligibility or need help finding an agency? Anchor Healthcare offers free consultations to help you determine if your family qualifies for the program. Taking the time to explore these options today could provide your family with the financial support and professional guidance you need to keep your child thriving at home. Call now for a free consultation 404-907-6905