Update: As of February 28, 2024, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has received full approval from the federal Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) on Community First Services and Supports (CFSS). At this time, there is no action needed.

To learn more about what stays the same and what is new with CFSS, view the CFSS information sheet. Lifeworks will share more information about the transition from PCA Choice or CSG to CFSS as it becomes available.

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is in the process of developing a new self-directed service named, Community First Services and Supports (CFSS), that will offer participants more control and choice over their care. CFSS will be for people living in the community who need help with day-to-day activities. This service will fall under the Medical Assistance, waiver, and Alternative Care programs.

Importantly, CFSS will replace the Personal Care Assistant Choice (PCA) service and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG). It will have the same eligibility rules as PCA, specifically that a person must have an assessment to determine eligibility. New to the CFSS is the requirement to meet with a consultation services provider to establish a person-centered plan. Depending on the assessed needs and plan, CFSS participants will be able to buy goods that reduce the need for human assistance (home modifications, technology, etc.).

Spouses and parents of minor CFSS participants can be paid to provide services. The CFSS workers role is expanded, giving them the ability to help participants learn new skills and complete daily living activities.

With participants being the employers of their own support workers in this model, they will recruit, hire, train, and supervise their support workers. As a Financial Management Service (FMS) provider, Lifeworks will be there to help by ensuring compliance with labor laws, processing payroll, obtaining necessary insurances, and more.

In order to implement the program, state and federal approval are required. To date, DHS has received legislative approval and has submitted an amendment to the federal Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and is in discussion with them. Lifeworks will provide updates regarding CFSS as information is made available.

Summary

• Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) will replace Personal Care Assistance Choice (PCA) and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG).
• CFSS requires meeting and developing a plan with a consultation services provider.
• Depending on the assessed plan, CFSS participants will be able to buy goods that reduce the need for human assistance.
• Spouses and parents of minor CFSS participants can be paid to provide services.
• CFSS is waiting on federal approval and does not have an implementation date.

To learn more about CFSS, watch this short video provided by DHS.