GT Independence is committed to doing its part to ensure the health and safety of our stakeholders. 

GT Independence has in place policies, plans and infrastructure to support business continuity in the case of disaster or an event like the current Coronavirus threat. We anticipate that GT Independence will be able to continue to fully serve our 22,000 plus Participants throughout this pandemic event.  

At GT Independence, community is a core value. We will continue to do our part to protect the health and safety of our communities and minimize the impact that the Coronavirus has on our local health care systems and the people who depend on us. 

Please see our responses to frequently asked questions about how Coronavirus affects the people we serve below:

Frequently Asked Questions

General

Is the GT Independence office open?

No. GT Independence has closed all of it’s office locations to limit our employee’s exposure to the Coronavirus. GT Staff are working remotely from home offices at this time.

What if I have symptoms?

If you feel that you are not well, the CDC advises individuals to stay home if they are sick and to consult with their local health department about steps to mitigate Coronavirus.

How can I prevent infection at my house?

Please follow guidance issued by the CDC on preventing infection. You can view their guidance here.

For People Receiving Services

What if my worker has symptoms?

The CDC advises workers to stay home if they are sick and to consult with their local health department about steps to mitigate Coronavirus.

What if my worker won't come?

Employers should review their backup plan and reach out to natural support providers (family, friends). Employers should contact their care coordinator for further assistance.

What do I do if I cannot get a hold of my case manager and the agency is closed?

GT Independence is happy to reach out to the agency on your behalf.

Will GT be paying early if there is a nationwide quarantine?

No. GT Independence will continue to follow the posted payroll schedules.

For Service Providers

Will I still receive payment for my time worked?

Yes. GT Independence will remain fully operational throughout this crisis. Our dedicated team is working to ensure all timesheets are processed and payments are issued as normal.

Am i considered an essential worker during shelter in place rules?

Yes, but please verify with your employer (Participant) before reporting to provide care. Most States affirm that personal care services meet the definition of critical infrastructure services. Thus, personal care services providers may continue to provide services to Medicaid beneficiaries for most States during a shelter in place order. For a list of State specific rules and guidelines click here.

What do I do if I can't provide care?

Please notify your employer and contact their case manager as soon as possible if you are unable to provide care due to illness or any other reason.

What if the person I’m serving has symptoms?

The CDC recommends using Standard Transmission-based Precautions when serving individuals who may have symptoms. See the Interim Infection Prevention and Control Recommendations for Patients with Known or Patients Under Investigation for Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) in Healthcare Settings.

Can I apply for unemployment if my employer is sick or quarantined?

Depending on the State that you live in, expanded unemployment benefits may be available. If you experience a loss due to this, file for unemployment. You will need to file online or via phone as offices are closed.

What do I do if I cannot get a hold of my case manager and the agency is closed?

GT Independence is happy to reach out to the agency on your behalf.

Will GT be paying early if there is a nationwide quarantine?

No. GT Independence will continue to follow the posted payroll schedules.

Will I be paid if I cannot provide services because I am sick/quarantined?

No. GT Independence can only pay for services that are provided as outlined by the authorizing agency. If we receive authorization from the funding agency to pay when work has not been provided, we will let you know.

Will I receive sick pay if I catch COVID-19?

Depending on the rules of the funding agency, if there is sick pay built into your budget and you have time available, you can claim sick time if approved by your employer.

For Case Managers

Is GT taking new referrals?

Yes. GT Independence will continue to accept referrals and process enrollments during this time. GT Independence has temporarily suspended face-to-face enrollments to protect the health and safety of those we serve and our field teams.