HCBS Planned Expansion
The Department of Health has notified associations that HCBS will be expanding into some non-ALP assisted living communities.
In summary:
What is HCBS?
Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) is a program that allows residents to participate in a vast array of services through Medicaid funded services while living in an assisted living (it can be for other environments as well, but we’re only focusing on AL). This program is heavily person-centered and supports residents being part of the greater community, including opportunities to seek employment and work, engage in community life control personal resources, and receive services in the community. The program also requires and encourages resident participation in creating a person-centered care plan what includes goals for a person’s well-being.
Who is participating in HCBS now?
ALPs, as they receive Medicaid funding.
Who will be participating in HCBS soon?
Any assisted living with a resident who receives Medicaid will have to participate for that individual(s). This means that even a private-pay community could be required to follow HCBS rules for that individual(s).
How can a private-pay resident be receiving Medicaid?
Sometimes coverage overlaps during a stay.
What is next?
The Department of Health is working on a questionnaire that ALL communities will have to complete. The questionnaire will ask if a community has any residents on Medicaid. If the answer is “yes,” the questionnaire will continue. If continuing the questionnaire, you will be asked to provide policies/procedures related to HCBS.
When is this happening?
The Department of Health does not have a concrete timeline yet. They are anticipating the questionnaire to be out “soon.”
What should I do now?
If you are not an ALP:
- Look to see if you have any residents who receive Medicaid
- Read up on HCBS here and here
- Be on the lookout for more information and a call that NYSCAL will set up to review
If you are an ALP:
- Review your policies/procedures
- Review resident charts and ensure compliance
NYSCAL will provide updates with any developments.
NYSHFA | NYSCAL CONTACTS:
Christina Audi, MHA, LNHA
Executive Director, NYSCAL
caudi@nyshfa-nyscal.org
518-462-4800 x 13
