Finding the right in-home support for a loved one can feel overwhelming, especially when navigating the complexities of Medicaid. This guide simplifies that search by providing a curated list of the best resources and home care agencies that accept Medicaid in Mercer County, NJ. We cut through the confusion to give you a clear, actionable starting point.

This resource list is designed for efficiency. Instead of just listing names, we provide direct links, service overviews, and insights into how each platform can specifically help your family. You will learn how to use national databases like the Eldercare Locator and state-specific tools like NJ Caregiving to pinpoint qualified providers. We also explore managed care organization directories from Aetna, WellCare, and UnitedHealthcare to help you verify in-network options.

Our goal is to empower you with the information needed to make a confident and informed decision. Each entry includes practical tips and key details to help you compare agencies and find the compassionate, reliable care your family deserves. This article serves as your direct path to securing the best possible support, ensuring your loved one can thrive comfortably and safely at home.

1. NJ Caregiving

NJ Caregiving stands out as a premier choice among home care agencies that accept Medicaid in Mercer County, offering a comprehensive and highly personalized suite of services. The agency has built a strong reputation for its client-centered philosophy, focusing on enhancing independence and dignity for seniors and individuals with disabilities. Their team of skilled nurses and professional caregivers delivers everything from basic personal care and companionship to complex nursing and specialized medical support, ensuring a continuum of care tailored to evolving needs.

Why It's Our Top Pick

NJ Caregiving distinguishes itself through its robust support system, which extends beyond direct care. A key advantage is their proactive assistance with Medicaid eligibility, guiding families through the often complex application process to secure funding. This hands-on approach demystifies access to care for low-income clients, making them a vital resource for the community. The agency's 24/7 availability for emergencies and an on-site physician service provide an integrated, seamless healthcare experience that offers unparalleled peace of mind for families and healthcare professionals alike.

Key Service Information

• Services Offered: Personal Care, Nursing Services, Respite Care, Companionship, Specialized Medical Support.
• Payment Options: Accepts Medicaid, private pay, and other insurance plans.
• Geographic Coverage: Princeton and the broader Mercer County, NJ area.
• Unique Feature: Provides dedicated assistance with the Medicaid eligibility and application process, removing a significant barrier for many families.

Pros:

• Comprehensive, personalized care plans
• Highly skilled nursing and caregiver team
• Accepts Medicaid and provides eligibility guidance
• 24/7 availability for client support

Cons:

• Service area is limited to Mercer County
• Reduced non-emergency office hours on weekends

Website: https://njcaregiving.com

2. Eldercare Locator (Administration for Community Living, HHS)

The Eldercare Locator is a free, nationwide public service from the U.S. Administration on Aging. Rather than being a direct directory of agencies, it acts as a crucial first step, connecting users to their local Area Agency on Aging (AAA). This government-backed resource is designed to provide unbiased guidance, making it one of the most reliable ways to find home care agencies that accept Medicaid and navigate complex state-specific programs.

Its primary strength lies in its non-commercial nature. You won't find paid listings or promotional content here. Instead, you get direct access to local experts who understand Mercer County's specific Medicaid waiver programs, eligibility requirements, and vetted provider networks.

How to Use Eldercare Locator Effectively

The user experience is straightforward: enter a zip code or city, and the site provides contact information for the appropriate local agency.

• Best For: Individuals just beginning their search, especially those unsure about their Medicaid eligibility or the types of Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) available.
• Practical Tip: Use the live phone or chat support (available weekdays). This allows you to ask detailed questions about Medicaid applications and get personalized referrals to programs that can help you find qualified care.
• Limitation: The platform doesn't list individual agencies directly; it connects you to the local organizations that do. This means an extra step, but it ensures you receive localized, expert advice.

Website: https://eldercare.acl.gov

3. Medicaid.gov (State Overviews and links to your state Medicaid)

Medicaid.gov is the official U.S. government website for Medicaid and the Children's Health Insurance Program (CHIP). While it doesn't list individual agencies, it serves as the authoritative starting point, providing a direct gateway to each state's specific Medicaid program. This makes it an indispensable tool for finding official, state-vetted lists of home care agencies that accept Medicaid, along with the most current eligibility rules.

Its core value is providing verified, direct links to state-specific resources. By navigating to the New Jersey page, you can find information on Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) waivers and access the state's official provider directories. This ensures you are working with the most accurate and up-to-date information, bypassing potentially outdated or commercial third-party sites.

How to Use Medicaid.gov Effectively

The site uses an interactive map to guide you to your state's portal. From there, you will need to navigate the state-specific website.

• Best For: Users who want to find the official, state-managed list of in-network home care providers and understand the specific HCBS waiver programs available in Mercer County.
• Practical Tip: Once on the New Jersey Medicaid site, look for terms like "Provider Directory," "Find a Provider," or "Home and Community-Based Services." These sections typically contain the searchable databases of approved agencies.
• Limitation: The user experience varies significantly once you click through to the state-level website. Some state sites are more user-friendly than others, so be prepared for some navigation.

Website: https://www.medicaid.gov/state-overviews/

4. Medicare “Care Compare” (Home Health Agencies)

While its name highlights Medicare, the official “Care Compare” tool from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) is an invaluable resource for finding high-quality home health providers. Many of the best Medicare-certified agencies also participate in state Medicaid programs for skilled nursing and therapy services. This makes it an excellent starting point to identify clinically sound home care agencies that accept Medicaid for more complex needs.

The platform’s key advantage is its objective, data-driven approach. It provides star ratings based on patient survey results and quality of care measures, such as how often patients get better at walking or have to be admitted to the hospital. This allows you to vet an agency's clinical performance before inquiring about their Medicaid participation.

How to Use Medicare “Care Compare” Effectively

The search function is simple: you enter a zip code to see a list of certified agencies nearby. You can then compare up to three agencies side-by-side based on official quality metrics.

• Best For: Families seeking skilled nursing, physical therapy, or occupational therapy at home and wanting to vet an agency's quality of care before checking its Medicaid status.
• Practical Tip: After identifying top-rated agencies in Mercer County, call them directly and ask, "Do you accept New Jersey FamilyCare/Medicaid for home health services?" This direct approach bridges the gap between the tool's data and your specific payment needs.
• Limitation: The site does not explicitly state which agencies accept Medicaid. This information must be confirmed independently, making it a research tool rather than a direct Medicaid provider directory.

Website: https://www.medicare.gov/care-compare

5. findhelp.org (formerly Aunt Bertha)

Findhelp.org, formerly known as Aunt Bertha, is one of the largest and most comprehensive online directories for free and reduced-cost social services in the United States. It functions as a powerful search engine for community resources, making it an invaluable tool for locating home care agencies that accept Medicaid. Its robust filtering system allows users to quickly narrow down vast databases to find specific, relevant support.

The platform's key advantage is its directness and scope. Unlike government portals that refer you to other agencies, findhelp.org often provides direct program pages with eligibility rules, intake steps, and contact information. This streamlines the process, helping you find and connect with potential Mercer County providers in a single session.

How to Use findhelp.org Effectively

The user experience is built around a simple search bar: enter a zip code and a search term like "home health care."

• Best For: Families who want to quickly generate a list of local programs and directly see which ones are flagged for accepting Medicaid without making phone calls first.
• Practical Tip: Use the "Medicaid" filter under the "Pay for" section after you perform an initial search. This immediately hides providers that do not accept Medicaid, saving you significant time. Also, look for programs with detailed instructions and online contact forms.
• Limitation: The database is massive, so initial search results can be broad. You must be diligent with filters like "In-Home Assistance" or "Home Health Care" to get the most relevant listings.

Website: https://www.findhelp.org

6. 211.org (United Way/Inform USA)

As a nationwide information-and-referral service, 211.org connects users to a wide range of local health and human services, including in-home support. By dialing 211 or using the website, individuals can get direct assistance from live specialists who are trained to navigate local resources. This makes it an invaluable tool for finding home care agencies that accept Medicaid, especially when you are unsure which specific programs or waivers you might qualify for.

The platform's key advantage is its human touch. Instead of just browsing a database, you can speak with someone knowledgeable about Mercer County's specific Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) network. These specialists provide confidential, personalized assistance, cutting through the confusion of program names and eligibility rules to direct you to vetted, in-network agencies.

How to Use 211.org Effectively

While the website offers a search function, the live support via phone is often more direct and effective for complex needs like Medicaid-funded care.

• Best For: Individuals who need immediate, personalized guidance or are overwhelmed by the complexity of Medicaid programs and prefer speaking to a live person.
• Practical Tip: When you call, clearly state that you are looking for "home care agencies that accept Medicaid" for an older adult or person with disabilities. This helps the specialist quickly narrow down the appropriate resources.
• Limitation: The quality and depth of web-based search results can vary significantly by location. For the most reliable and tailored referrals, making a direct phone call is highly recommended.

Website: https://www.211.org

7. National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) – Agency Locator

The National Association for Home Care & Hospice (NAHC) Agency Locator is a comprehensive database from a major industry trade association. It provides a vast directory of over 30,000 home care, home health, and hospice agencies nationwide. While it's not exclusively for Medicaid, its sheer size and consumer education resources make it a valuable tool for building a list of potential local providers to contact.

Its primary advantage is breadth. You can search by zip code and service type (like "Home Care Aide") to generate a list of agencies in Mercer County. The platform also offers educational content on billing practices, helping you understand how agencies work with different payers. This background knowledge is crucial when you begin asking agencies about their Medicaid participation.

How to Use the NAHC Agency Locator Effectively

The site functions as a straightforward search tool. Enter your location and the type of care needed to see a list of member agencies.

• Best For: Creating a broad initial list of local agencies to research further, especially when other, more targeted directories yield few results.
• Practical Tip: Use the locator to find agency names and contact information, then call them directly to ask, "Do you participate in New Jersey's MLTSS program for Medicaid?" Don't rely on the website for payer information. If you're unsure about how Medicaid coverage works, you can explore the topic further to get a better understanding of Medicaid's in-home care benefits.
• Limitation: The biggest drawback is the lack of a "Medicaid Accepted" filter. You must manually verify payment options with each agency, making it a more labor-intensive starting point for finding home care agencies that accept Medicaid.

Website: https://agencylocator.nahc.org

8. Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) – Find a Provider

The Home Care Association of America (HCAOA) is a national trade association representing home care agencies. Its "Find a Provider" tool is a powerful directory featuring thousands of member agencies, offering a direct route to finding potential home care agencies that accept Medicaid. While not a government entity, HCAOA agencies are expected to adhere to a code of ethics, providing a baseline of quality and professionalism.

This resource stands out by offering a large, pre-vetted pool of potential providers alongside consumer education materials. The platform helps families understand different care models and payment options, empowering them to make more informed decisions when interviewing agencies. It serves as an excellent starting point for creating a list of local agencies to contact directly.

How to Use HCAOA's Directory Effectively

The search function is simple: enter your zip code, and it generates a list of member agencies in your vicinity.

• Best For: Creating a list of local, reputable agencies to contact directly to inquire about their services and Medicaid acceptance policies.
• Practical Tip: When you find a promising agency in Mercer County, visit its website or call to specifically ask which New Jersey Medicaid waiver programs they participate in, such as NJ FamilyCare or the Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) program.
• Limitation: The directory does not explicitly filter for Medicaid acceptance. This crucial step requires direct verification with each agency, as participation varies widely by location and specific waiver programs.

Website: https://www.hcaoa.org

9. UnitedHealthcare Community Plan – Medicaid Provider Directory

For individuals enrolled in a UnitedHealthcare (UHC) Medicaid plan, the official provider directory is the most direct and accurate resource. This tool is specifically designed to help members find in-network providers, ensuring that services are covered under their specific plan. It eliminates the guesswork and confirms that you are searching for home care agencies that accept Medicaid through the UHC network, which is crucial for avoiding out-of-pocket costs.

The primary strength of this directory is its specificity. Unlike general databases, this tool is tailored to your exact UHC Community Plan in New Jersey. This means every agency listed for personal care, home health, or long-term care services has a contractual agreement with UnitedHealthcare, guaranteeing coverage for eligible members.

How to Use the UHC Directory Effectively

The user experience requires you to select your state and specific plan name to access the correct list of providers.

• Best For: Current UnitedHealthcare Medicaid or Managed Long-Term Services and Supports (MLTSS) members who need to find a covered home care agency quickly.
• Practical Tip: Have your member ID card handy. You will need to select the exact name of your plan (e.g., "UnitedHealthcare Community Plan of New Jersey") to ensure the directory shows the correct, in-network providers for your benefits.
• Limitation: This resource is exclusively for individuals covered by a UnitedHealthcare plan. If you are not a UHC member, this directory will not be relevant to your search.

Website: https://www.uhc.com/communityplan

10. Aetna Better Health (Aetna Medicaid) – Find a Provider

For individuals enrolled in an Aetna Medicaid Managed Care plan, the official Aetna Better Health “Find a Provider” tool is an essential resource. This directory is specifically designed for members to locate in-network healthcare services, including the home care agencies that accept Medicaid under their specific plan. Using this tool guarantees that the providers listed are contracted with Aetna, eliminating guesswork and preventing out-of-network billing issues.

Its primary strength is its direct integration with your specific health plan. Unlike general directories, the Aetna portal filters results based on your state and exact Medicaid plan, such as NJ FamilyCare. This ensures the information is not only accurate but also highly relevant to your coverage, detailing which home health and personal care support services are available to you.

How to Use Aetna Better Health Effectively

The experience is streamlined for current members. You select your state and plan to access the correct, localized provider directory.

• Best For: Current Aetna Medicaid members in New Jersey seeking a definitive list of in-network home care providers covered by their specific plan.
• Practical Tip: When searching, use specific terms like "Home Health" or "Personal Care Assistant Services" to narrow down the results effectively. Always call the agency afterward to confirm they are accepting new Medicaid patients.
• Limitation: This resource is exclusive to individuals enrolled in an Aetna Medicaid plan. It is not a public-facing search tool for non-members exploring options.

Website: https://www.aetnabetterhealth.com

11. Molina Healthcare – Medicaid Provider Directory

For residents enrolled in a Molina Healthcare Medicaid plan, the company’s official provider directory is the most direct tool for finding approved care. This resource is designed specifically for members, ensuring that every listed provider is in-network. This eliminates the guesswork and financial uncertainty of verifying whether specific home care agencies that accept Medicaid are covered under a Molina plan.

Unlike general search portals, Molina’s directories are curated and authoritative for its members. The information is available through online search tools or as downloadable PDFs, offering flexibility for users who prefer a digital or paper copy. This makes it a reliable, single source of truth for identifying home health and personal care providers within the Molina network.

How to Use Molina Healthcare’s Directory Effectively

Navigating the site requires selecting your state and specific Medicaid plan to access the correct directory.

• Best For: Individuals who are already enrolled in a Molina Healthcare Medicaid plan and need to find a contracted home care agency.
• Practical Tip: If the online directory feels overwhelming, call the Member Services number on your insurance card. Representatives can perform a search for you and provide direct contact information for local, in-network agencies.
• Limitation: The directory is only useful for Molina members, and you must first navigate to the correct regional section of the website to find relevant information.

Website: https://www.molinahealthcare.com

12. WellCare (Centene) – Medicaid Provider Directory

For individuals enrolled in a WellCare or another Centene-affiliated Medicaid managed care plan, their official provider directory is the most direct tool for finding care. This resource exclusively lists in-network providers, guaranteeing that the services are covered under the member's specific plan. It’s a crucial resource for ensuring you find home care agencies that accept Medicaid without facing out-of-network costs.

The primary strength of this directory is its precision. Unlike general databases, every agency listed has a contractual relationship with WellCare, eliminating the guesswork of whether a provider will accept your insurance. This makes it an essential tool for current members to find vetted and approved home health services.

How to Use WellCare's Directory Effectively

The site requires users to select their state and specific Medicaid plan to access the correct directory. From there, you can filter results by specialty.

• Best For: Current members of a WellCare, Fidelis Care, or other Centene Medicaid managed care plan who need a confirmed in-network agency.
• Practical Tip: Search specifically for "Home Health" or "Personal Care Services" to narrow down the results. If you feel overwhelmed, call the member services number on your insurance card for a representative to help you navigate the directory.
• Limitation: The portal can be complex, as the branding and website address change depending on your state (e.g., WellCare vs. Fidelis Care). This can make the initial navigation a bit challenging for new users.

Website: https://www.wellcare.com

Home Care Agencies Accepting Medicaid: 12-Source Comparison

Provider / Tool	Core Features & Services	User Experience ★ & Quality Metrics	Value Proposition 💰	Target Audience 👥	Unique Selling Points ✨	Price Points 💰
🏆 NJ Caregiving	Personalized in-home care; nursing; respite; companionship	Highly skilled caregivers; 24/7 support ★★★★★	Medicaid-funded options; flexible pricing	Seniors, disabled in Mercer County NJ 👥	On-site physician; Medicaid eligibility help ✨	Affordable; Medicaid programs included
Eldercare Locator (ACL, HHS)	Nationwide referrals to local AAAs & ADRCs	Live phone/text/chat (M–F, 8am–9pm ET) ★★★★	Government-backed, noncommercial guidance	Medicaid waiver seekers, families 👥	Direct local program referrals ✨	Free
Medicaid.gov (State Overviews)	State Medicaid benefits, HCBS waivers, provider links	Authoritative, official info ★★★★	Official Medicaid resource	Medicaid applicants, planners 👥	Interactive state map ✨	Free
Medicare “Care Compare” (Home Health Agencies)	Search Medicare-certified agencies; star ratings	CMS data, ratings & patient experience ★★★★	High-quality standardized comparisons	Medicare & Medicaid coordinated care seekers 👥	Nationwide star ratings	Free
findhelp.org (formerly Aunt Bertha)	Directory with Medicaid filters; eligibility info	Fast local results; online contact ★★★	Extensive national network	Medicaid users seeking home care 👥	Filter by Medicaid acceptance ✨	Free
211.org (United Way)	24/7 helpline & web search; multilingual support	Live specialists; personalized help ★★★★	Fast route to local in-network providers	Those unsure about options; diverse users 👥	24/7 multilingual support ✨	Free
NAHC Agency Locator	Database of 30,000+ home care & hospice agencies	Industry trade association ★★★	Wide coverage; billing education	Home care seekers nationally 👥	Tips on billing & payers	Free
HCAOA – Find a Provider	Vetted member agencies; care model guidance	Consumer guidance on care ★★★	Large vetted network	Home care clients nationwide 👥	Education on payment & care choices	Free
UnitedHealthcare Community Plan Directory	Plan-specific in-network providers	Clear, focused directories ★★★	Direct UHC Medicaid network	UHC Medicaid members only 👥	In-network provider clarity	Free
Aetna Better Health – Find a Provider	Medicaid in-network provider search	Simple state/plan navigation ★★★	Ensures correct network contacts	Aetna Medicaid members 👥	Plan-specific in-network providers	Free
Molina Healthcare Medicaid Directory	State/regional directories w/ phone support	Multiple formats; support ★★★	Official Molina Medicaid providers	Molina Medicaid members 👥	Member services help	Free
WellCare (Centene) Medicaid Provider Directory	State-specific Medicaid directories	Phone support; state variation ★★★	In-network lists for WellCare Medicaid	WellCare Medicaid members 👥	Specialty/category search	Free

Empowering Your Family with the Right Care Partner

Finding the right in-home care for a loved one can feel like navigating a complex maze, especially when Medicaid is involved. However, as this guide demonstrates, you are surrounded by powerful resources designed to simplify this process. From broad, national databases like the Eldercare Locator and Medicaid.gov to hyper-specific managed care organization (MCO) provider directories from Aetna or WellCare, the tools you need are at your fingertips.

The journey starts with understanding your specific needs and leveraging these tools strategically. Federal locators provide a wide-angle view, helping you grasp the landscape of available support, while MCO directories offer the final, crucial list of contracted providers. Remember that each tool serves a distinct purpose; using them in tandem creates a comprehensive and effective search strategy.

Key Takeaways for Your Search

The most critical insight is that you are not alone in this search. The combination of government-sponsored tools, non-profit databases like findhelp.org, and industry association locators ensures that a vetted list of potential home care agencies that accept Medicaid is always accessible.

Your primary action steps should be:

• Verify Eligibility First: Before diving deep into agency research, confirm your loved one's Medicaid eligibility and enrollment in a specific plan, like NJ FamilyCare. This is the foundational step that dictates which provider directories you will use.
• Cross-Reference Your Findings: Don't rely on a single source. Use a tool like the Medicare Care Compare to check an agency's quality ratings and then confirm their Medicaid participation through your MCO's directory. This layered approach ensures you find a provider that is both high-quality and in-network.
• Prepare for the Interview: Once you have a shortlist, treat the selection process like a hiring decision. Prepare questions about caregiver training, communication protocols, emergency procedures, and how they personalize care plans. The best partner will be one that listens intently and responds with clear, compassionate answers.

Making the Final Choice

Ultimately, selecting the right agency goes beyond checking a box for Medicaid acceptance. It's about finding a true care partner who respects your loved one's dignity and integrates seamlessly into your family's life. Consider factors like an agency's responsiveness, the compassion of its staff, and its local reputation. An agency like NJ Caregiving, for instance, not only provides direct services but also acts as a vital guide through the state-specific Medicaid landscape. This combination of hands-on care and administrative expertise is invaluable. By using the resources outlined here and focusing on these essential human elements, you can confidently secure the support your family member needs to thrive safely and comfortably at home.

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If you're in Mercer County and need a trusted partner to navigate the complexities of Medicaid-funded home care, NJ Caregiving is here to help. We specialize in providing compassionate, personalized in-home services under NJ FamilyCare/Medicaid and can guide you through every step of the process. Visit NJ Caregiving to learn how we can support your family's unique needs.