Rhode Island PersonalChoice

The PersonalChoice program is designed to help Rhode Island residents with disabilities and older persons manage their own attendant services.

PersonalChoice uses the word “assistant”, though many people use other words like “attendant” or “aide”. In PersonalChoice you can hire, train, supervise and fire your own assistants. You can set up your own assistants’ schedules. You can decide when and where your services take place.

For the most part, you can decide what services your assistants will provide and how they will provide them.

The Personal Choice program is located at the Rhode Island Department of Human Services, Center for Adult Health, 600 New London Ave., Cranston, RI 02920. Fax: 401-462-6339

Contacts

Dianne Kayala, PersonalChoice Project Director
Phone: 401-462-6303
Email: dkayala@dhs.ri.gov

Denise Marquis, Senior Medical Care Specialist
Phone: 401-462-2127
Email: dmarquis@dhs.ri.gov

When you direct your own assistant services, you have the chance to depend on yourself instead of an agency. You have the chance to make your own decisions and to take responsibility for those decisions. PersonalChoice gives you more flexibility in your daily routine. It gives you greater authority to make decisions. It gives you the chance to take greater control over your life.

If you would like to learn more about PersonalChoice, or you want to apply for the program, contact one of the Advisement Agencies.

As a Rhode Islander, you also may be eligible for the following programs:

• PASS
• Respite