PHOTO: Chuck Faulk, who was injured in an accident over 20 years ago, has been cared for by his parents in their home.  A few years ago his family learned about the Choices program.  Senator Tracy listened carefully to Mr. Faulk’s frustration regarding a new TennCare ruling that prohibits his caregiver from driving his van to take him to appointments.


At the invitation of locally owned @Home Care, on July 11 State Senator Jim Tracy visited several Rutherford Countians who need in-home caregiving assistance.

“With the constant discussion at the state and local levels about health care needs and programs, we wanted to make it possible for our state officials to meet with some of our citizens in person to see for themselves how critical some of the needs are,” said @Home Care’s Melissa Warren.  “Tennessee’s Choices program really fills a gap for many people who otherwise would have no choice but to go into state-run nursing homes.”  Warren also has invited other elected officials to join her.  

Senator Tracy, along with @Home Care owner Melissa Warren and @Home Care Quality Assurance Specialist Susan Parrish, met with local resident Chuck Faulk.  Mr. Faulk, who was injured in an accident more than 20 years ago, lives with his parents and is primarily cared for by them in their home.  A few years ago, the family began using the state’s Choices program to supplement their around-the-clock care of their son, providing him with outside interaction and assistance, and them with respite care.  Current changes to the program include a new TennCare ruling prohibiting Mr. Faulk’s caregiver from driving his van to take him to appointments.  This ruling means his parents are the sole providers of his transportation once again.

A second visit was made to local residents William and Cindy Webb.  Mr. Webb, a disabled veteran, also receives services from the Tennessee Choices program, which allows him to stay at home with help from caregivers who provide bathing, housekeeping, meal prep and transfer assistance.  When the caregiver is present, Mrs. Webb is able to leave her home, do necessary errands and take care of the household needs.  

“We are so thankful for the Choices program,” said Mr. Webb.  “We honestly don’t know how we would survive without it and our caregivers.” "Without exception, our clients truly appreciated the chance to meet in person with Senator Tracy and talk with him about their personal needs,” Warren said.  “Senator Tracy made it a point to give each family his business card and invited them to call him at any time if they need his assistance.”