Changes to PCA Services [announcement from Minnesota DHS]
End of the Extension for COVID-19 Modification Allowing Parents of Minors and Spouses to Provide PCA Services
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) announced that parents, stepparents and legal guardians of minors, as well as spouses will no longer be allowed as paid caregivers for personal care assistance (PCA) services after November 11, 2023.
The COVID-19 pandemic brought several challenges for individuals receiving PCA services and their caregivers, including safety concerns, reduced access to services and emotional stress.
During the public health emergency, parents, stepparents and legal guardians of minors, as well as spouses were allowed to provide PCA services as paid caregivers. Due to this change, some families moved from the Consumer Support Grant (CSG) to PCA services. At the end of the public health emergency on May 11, 2023, a six-month temporary extension of COVID-19 modification allowing parents of minors and spouses to provide PCA services was granted.
The End of the COVID-19 Modification Extension: What Does it Mean?
The six-month extension period ends on November 11, 2023, which means parents, stepparents and legal guardians of minors, as well as spouses will no longer be allowed as paid caregivers for PCA services. If this change affects you, contact your county or tribal case manager or managed care organization care coordinator to ask about your options and develop a plan for services.
How Can PICS Help?
If you are considering transitioning to a program that allows parents of minors and spouses to provide paid caregiving, PICS is ready to help you enroll. We are a Financial Management Service (FMS) provider for the Consumer Support Grant (CSG) and Consumer Directed Community Supports (CDCS). These services allow parents of minors and spouses to be paid caregivers.
PICS is also a licensed 245D provider, offering Individualized Home Supports (IHS) without training for those who choose not to self-direct.
PICS is available and ready to support you. Contact us today by calling 651.967.5060 or emailing us at [email protected].