Community First Services and Supports will begin implementation in October [announcement from DHS]
Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) recently announced that Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) will begin implementation starting on October 1, 2024. PICS (Partners in Community Supports) will offer support for CFSS, and we wanted to share more information about this new program.
CFSS will replace both personal care assistance (PCA) and Consumer Support Grant (CSG) services. Spouses and parents of minors can provide paid caregiving services through CFSS.
What are the eligibility requirements for CFSS?
The eligibility requirements for CFSS are the same as the eligibility requirements for PCA and CSG services. To be eligible for CFSS, a person must:
- Be on one of Minnesota’s health care programs.
- Live in their own home.
- Be able to direct their own care or have a representative who can do so on their behalf.
- Have received an eligibility assessment.
When will my services change to CFSS?
While CFSS will be a service option starting on October 1, 2024, PCA and CSG services will not end immediately. Individuals currently using PCA or CSG services will transition to CFSS at their annual assessment.
Will my services be different under CFSS?
With CFSS, you will have more options and supports for your home care services. According to DHS, the new options include:
- Each person using CFSS will work with a consultation services provider for support in writing their service delivery plan. Watch DHS’ video about consultation services.
- A person who uses CFSS may provide support as a paid caregiver for another person receiving CFSS.
- Individuals are able to purchase goods and services for increased independence, including a personal emergency response system (PERS) to provide backup support. Watch DHS’ video on goods, services and PERS.
- The state provides a budget for training and development for caregivers on the personalized needs of the individual receiving services. Watch DHS’ video on worker training and development.
Will PICS provide CFSS services?
Yes, PICS can support your family with CFSS when implementation begins on October 1, 2024! We are ready and available to help with your transition.
CFSS has two service options: the Agency and Budget Models.
Under the Budget Model:
- You are the employer of your caregivers and recruit, hire, train and supervise, similar to CSG. Parents of minors and spouses can provide paid caregiving.
- PICS will support you as the employer with:
- Hiring and staffing, including payroll and training
- Processing and paying expenses and reimbursements
- Handling accounting and reporting tax and revenue information
Under the Agency Model:
- An agency recruits, hires, trains and supervises caregivers, similar to PCA. Parents of minors and spouses can provide paid caregiving.
- PICS provides support under the Agency Model for individuals to purchase goods and services.
How do I get started?
If you are currently using PICS for CSG services, your service coordinator will reach out before your reassessment.
If you would like to switch from PCA to the CFSS budget model, please fill out our enrollment form and we will be in touch soon!