Wednesday, March 18, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Is Succession Planning on Your Radar?

It should be! Home care succession planning is not just about people leaving—it’s about protecting the agency, staff, and clients if leadership changes unexpectedly or naturally over time.

Succession planning reduces organizational risk. 

Register for the Leadership Summit now to learn more about creating an effective plan.

  MHCA IN ACTION

Day at the Capitol and Advocacy Week 

Last Thursday, March 12, MHCA hosted our annual Day at the Capitol, where members and clients come together to advocate for protecting access to care in Minnesota. 

There, we pushed our bill, the Home Care Access Policy Bill. This legislation updates the structure for use of home care fine dollars to align more closely with changes passed into law last session for Assisted Living fine dollars and ensures timely filling of vacancies on the Minnesota Department of Health’s Home Care and Assisted Living Advisory Council.  

We also collaborated with Home Care Nursing (HCN) agencies and families on a press conference advocating for legislation that would require insurance companies to comply with existing law and provide HCN coverage as intended under Minnesota Statute 62Q.545.

Continuity of Care

The paused funding for providers has led to gaps in service for some clients. Legislators are concerned about individuals going without necessary care and are seeking solutions to prevent this from happening in the future. Two bills were introduced in the past week addressing this matter: one from Representative Noor last week and the other from Senator Hoffman on Monday.

Executive Director, Kathy Messerli, was asked to testify and shared a few scenarios about clients going without care and urged legislators to ensure continuity of care during her testimony. If you are aware of other gaps in service due to funding interruptions related to Medicaid fraud investigations or other payment withholds, please let our Regulatory Affairs Manager know.

  State news

New Tiered PCA and CFSS Agency Rates Updated

The Minnesota Department of Human Services has updated its payment system to apply the new tiered rates for Personal Care Assistance (PCA) and Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) agency model services that took effect on Jan. 1, 2026. The update was completed on Feb. 13, 2026, and the system is now processing PCA and CFSS claims submitted on or after that date using the correct tiered rates.

Governor Tim Walz’s Proposal to Transform the Human Services System

On March 10, Gov. Tim Walz unveiled a proposal to restructure how Minnesota delivers Medicaid services that includes centralizing much of the work handled now by counties and the state’s managed health care organizations.

Under the proposal, the Minnesota Department of Human Services would take over determining eligibility for Medicaid programs and eliminate the role of managed care organizations (private insurers the state contracts with to manage the benefits of Medicaid recipients). His proposal would also shift some responsibilities like eligibility verification away from counties and towards the state, since counties currently do most of the work of administering social services programs in Minnesota.

Walz announced he was leaving the gubernatorial race in early January, but also said his goal for his final year in office is to set the state up to prevent any future fraud.

People receiving PCA on Alternative Care (AC) Transition to CFSS 

People receiving PCA on AC must transition to CFSS by March 31, 2026. AC case managers and supervisors should be aware and notify all affected.

DHS Resources for Revalidation Challenges

DHS has listed some resources to use if you are struggling with the revalidation process. 

• Drop-in MPSE revalidation sessions: Revalidation specialists are available to answer questions and facilitate trainings on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 1pm. No registration is required for the sessions. Click here to get the link to join.
• Provider Resource Center contact form: Use the form here to send us your questions in advance. Provider revalidation experts will review and compile responses, and DHS will work to share answers in a timely manner during the weekly roundtable calls. 

  federal news

Final January 2026 Interim Performance Reports (IPRs) are Available in iQIES

The Final January 2026 IPRs for the expanded HHVBP Model are now available in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES).

The quarterly IPRs provide home health agencies (HHAs) with their cohort assignment, performance year measure data for the most recent 12 months, and the interim Total Performance Score (TPS). Using the IPRs, HHAs can evaluate and monitor their performance relative to peers within their assigned cohort throughout the expanded Model performance year.

Click the link here to learn more.

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. Below are two upcoming Live Life Healthy Webinar dates. This is a great opportunity for MHCA members to learn how to enhance employee benefits, increase take-home pay, and reduce employer costs — all at ZERO net cost.

To schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your actual employee data  click here. 

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

August 3-4, 2026 – Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy, Plymouth
August 5, 2026 – COS-C Exam, Plymouth

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, March 4, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Three More Days to Register for 2026 Day at the Capitol!

Your voice is needed as we educate state legislators about the importance of home care in their district and advocate for issues that impact their constituents! Join us for Day at the Capitol and Advocacy Week, an incredible opportunity to advocate on behalf of critical home care priorities and make a real impact on the home care community in Minnesota. This event will take place on the mornings of March 10 and 12.

For more information and to register, click here.

Leadership Summit April 14 - Don’t Miss Out!

National speaker, Marcylle Combs, will talk about how the future of healthcare will be shaped by those who possess not only technical expertise, but also the vision, adaptability, and ethical judgment to guide their teams through uncertainty.

No matter your role—executive, provider, or policy influencer—developing and honing leadership skills will empower you to confront challenges head-on and chart a course toward a brighter, more sustainable future for healthcare.

Secure your spot today!

New Price! Over $100 Discount for Situational Awareness and De-Escalation Training

Now you can send 3 people for the old price of 1 to the March 24th Situational Awareness and De-Escalation Training. This is an important follow-up to the February 25th Workplace Safety Exercise. 

We want to make this as accessible to as many members as we can; this training saves lives, prevents incidents, and keeps employees and clients safer. 

Register here.

Try Out Our New Regulatory Consulting Program!

Does navigating the ever-changing world of regulatory compliance feel overwhelming? MHCA’s new Regulatory Consulting Program was created to help members strengthen compliance, reduce risk, and feel confident heading into surveys. This customized, corrective support is designed to meet your organization where it is—offering practical guidance that’s tailored to your specific operations and regulatory challenges.

The program delivers targeted consulting services tailored to each organization’s needs, focusing on three key areas: chart audit reviews, QAPI audit reviews, and mock surveys (for Medicare-certified and comprehensively licensed agencies).

Click here to learn more about the services and to register!

Resource of the Month: Regulatory Advocacy

Regulatory advocacy has become an increasingly critical focus for the Minnesota Home Care Association, particularly in light of the impact of the prepayment review process. We are in constant communication with DHS and have testified in front of the Minnesota Senate Human Services Committee, making sure policymakers understand the real-world impact of regulatory decisions on home care providers and the clients they serve. Through one-on-one advocacy, we have supported members directly, helping them address specific concerns and facilitating connections with DHS to resolve issues. 

"Knowing I can reach out to MHCA and get the latest information is such a relief in a time where we've experienced so many concerns and challenges. In addition, anything I bring that there is no known answer to, MHCA starts working on finding the answers. MHCA is who I lean on in when challenging situations arise – and to date, they have been incredibly responsive and quick to help get me the information we need so we can focus on client care." -- Jaime Kummer, River Valley Home Care, MHCA Member

Equally important, we have created meaningful opportunities for members to engage in advocacy themselves. Through our Advocacy Center and our upcoming Day at the Capitol, we provide spaces for providers to mobilize, connect with lawmakers, and make their voices heard. These efforts strengthen our collective influence and ensure that home care remains a sustainable part of Minnesota’s healthcare system.

4th Annual Community Tabletop Exercise a Success

On February 25, over 150 MHCA members engaged in Safety and Workplace Violence, a tabletop exercise led by Emily Moilanen from the Metro Health and Medical Preparedness Coalition.

The exercise covered:

• A free member event that met the regulatory requirements for a community-based exercise.
• 100% of those surveyed said that this meeting was worth their investment of time and resources.
• 99% of those surveyed said that this content will assist them in providing high quality care.Valuable takeaways from attendees included: 
  o Identified gaps and education needed for staff.
  o Having dedicated time to review this information and update it!
  o Connecting with other home care agencies to see how they respond in certain situations.
  

You can watch the recording here.

Follow-up this education with Situational Awareness and De-Escalation Training on March 24!

  MHCA IN ACTION

MHCA Bill Moves Forward

MHCA is leading our Home Care Access Policy Bill that updates the structure for use of home care fine dollars to align more closely with changes passed into law last session for Assisted Living fine dollars and ensures timely filling of vacancies on the Minnesota Department of Health’s Home Care and Assisted Living Advisory Council. 

Executive Director, Kathy Messerli, testified on the bill in the Senate Human Services Committee and House Human Services Finance and Policy Committee meetings on Tuesday, March 3. It was laid over for inclusion in an Omnibus bill, with one short stop in a Senate Governance Committee.

  State news

SFTP Data Migration Retention 

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has announced a temporary change to its file retention schedule for MN–ITS files stored on its Secure File Transfer Portal (SFTP). This one-time adjustment is necessary to support an upcoming data migration and will directly affect providers who submit batch claims through SFTP.

Who is affected?

If you are a provider who submits batch claims via SFTP, this change will impact you. You will need to take action to preserve any files you may need before the migration begins.

However, if you bill using the MN–ITS portal for individual direct data entry claims, this update will not affect you.

What is changing?

To accommodate the data migration effort, DHS will temporarily modify its standard 30-day retention schedule for MN–ITS files stored on SFTP. The change will begin at 6 a.m. on March 7, and standard retention will resume at 8 p.m. on March 8.

This is a one-time adjustment. After the migration is complete, DHS will return to its regular 30-day retention policy.

What needs to be done?

You should download and save any necessary files before the migration begins. Once files are deleted from SFTP, they will only be available for download through the MN–ITS portal. This temporary data migration and adjusted retention schedule apply only to files stored on SFTP and do not impact files in the MN–ITS mailbox.

Users who access the system through FTP or SSH clients (such as FileZilla or WinSCP) will continue to have access to each file type for approximately 3–7 days following the migration. 

Waiver and Alternative Care Resources and MN–ITS Training Sessions Expanded Capacity

The Minnesota Department of Human Services has expanded registration capacity for its March and April Waiver and AC Resources and MN–ITS Training sessions due to high demand. The session dates are as follows:

• March 3 – 4, 2026, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (two-day session)
• March 18 – 19, 2026, 9 a.m to 1 p.m. (two- day session)
• April 7 – 8, 2026, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (two-day session)
• April 21 – 22, 2026, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. (two-day session)
  

Register only for the session you plan to attend. Providers can register online for a training session.

If you are already registered for a session and need to cancel, email dhs.provider-workshops@state.mn.us and include your registration details in your request.

Updated Workers’ Compensation Poster Available

Minnesota law requires employers to display specific workplace notices and posters. An updated workers’ compensation poster is now available and includes information about mental health injuries that may qualify for workers’ compensation benefits.

The poster explains what employees should do if they are injured at work, outlines available workers’ compensation benefits, and details insurer responsibilities and how to report suspected fraud.

All required posters must be placed in a location where employees can easily see them. Employers can print or order these posters for free from the Minnesota Department of Labor and Industry’s Workplace Notices and Posters webpage. Posters are available individually or in a complete poster pack, and many are offered in multiple languages.

  federal news

Federal Government Halts Payment to Minnesota 

Vice President JD Vance announced last week that the Trump administration is temporarily halting $259.5 million in federal Medicaid funding to Minnesota.  While a deferral generally requires a state to repay funds to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that were previously drawn down for claims paid in a prior quarter, the mechanics of this have not yet been announced. The scope and dollar amount of this deferral are significantly larger than any previously experienced. This action is distinct from the $515 million withhold threat issued in January. State officials are continuing to assess both the short-term and potential long-term impacts of the deferral. However, they indicate that this action appears to be part of a broader and sustained federal effort affecting Medicaid funding in Minnesota. 

MHCA will continue to monitor what impact, if any, this will have on providers and client services.

Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) Expiration

The current Advance Beneficiary Notice of Noncoverage (ABN) Form CMS-R-131 expired on January 31, 2026. CMS has told providers to continue to use this version.

CMS will announce on their website when the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) approves the updated form. You will have 60 calendar days to start using the updated version from the date of the CMS announcement.

For updates, monitor the CMS Beneficiary Notices Initiative (BNI).

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. Below are two upcoming Live Life Healthy Webinar dates. This is a great opportunity for MHCA members to learn how to enhance employee benefits, increase take-home pay, and reduce employer costs — all at ZERO net cost.

March 10, 2026 — Live Life Healthy Webinar Fueled Growth Partnership 

If you’d prefer to schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your employee data click here.

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

August 3-4, 2026 – Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy, Plymouth
August 5, 2026 – COS-C Exam, Plymouth

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, February 18, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Dr. Steve Landers Steps Down from National Alliance CEO Role

Dr. Steve Landers stepped down from his role as National Alliance for Care at Home CEO. He will be succeeded by Jennifer Sheets. Dr. Landers was the inaugural CEO of the newly formed Alliance and led the organization through a transformational period. As a heart-driven physician who started his career providing care in the home to patients and families, he has been the essential leader needed to unite the home care and hospice communities and build a powerful movement with one strong voice. MHCA has expressed our gratitude for his leadership.

Sheets is a distinguished healthcare executive bringing nearly 25 years of experience spanning ICU nursing, hospital leadership, home health, hospice, healthcare technology, and M&A. She also brings a deep knowledge of the Alliance’s strategic direction and a clear vision for building on our momentum and advancing our shared mission, having served as a board member throughout the integration process. She remains active in national legislative and regulatory healthcare advocacy.

“I am deeply grateful and proud to have served as the inaugural CEO of the National Alliance for Care at Home. This has been a true highlight of my lifelong career in home-based care, and I’m eager to see the continued success of the organization under Jennifer and the Board’s leadership,” said Dr. Landers. 

Calling All Advocates for 2026 Day at the Capitol!

Your voice is needed as we educate state legislators about the importance of home care in their district and advocate for issues that impact their constituents! Join us for Day at the Capitol and Advocacy Week, an incredible opportunity to advocate on behalf of critical home care priorities and make a real impact on the home care community in Minnesota. This event will take place on the mornings of March 10 and 12.

“As a long time member of the MHCA Advocacy Committee, I’ve seen the difference we make when we show up! Day at the Capitol is a great chance to meet legislators and really champion home care. Newcomers are always welcome and you’ll get everything you need beforehand, even a mentor to take the lead, so jumping in is made easy.” – Jen Baker, Good Samaritan Home Care

For more information and to register, click here.

Last Chance! Sign up for our Feb 25 Member Meeting 

We will host an emergency preparedness tabletop exercise focusing on safety. All MHCA members are invited and encouraged to attend; Leadership, HR/Personnel Manager, Nurse Leaders, Clinicians, Office Staff, Field Staff, Front Desk Receptionist and anyone else who would benefit from safety education.

Register here for this free education.

Annual Meeting Call for Session Proposals Open

We are looking for speakers focused on enhancing caregiving techniques, improving agency operations, and fostering resilience in both caregivers and clients. Do you have expertise to share? We want to hear from YOU.

Apply here.

MHCF Scholarship Applications are Due March 1

Have you applied for the Minnesota Home Care Foundation’s (MHCF) new Scholarship Program? This program supports direct care, clinical, and administrative professionals by helping cover the cost of continuing education and certification opportunities. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are due March 1, with reviews taking place during the second week of March. Selected recipients will be awarded up to $200 toward an eligible certification or continuing education course. 

For more information and to apply, click here.

Feeling Stressed About Regulatory Compliance? We Have a Program For That!

Does navigating the ever-changing world of regulatory compliance feel overwhelming? MHCA’s new Regulatory Consulting Program was created to help members strengthen compliance, reduce risk, and feel confident heading into surveys. This customized, corrective support is designed to meet your organization where it is—offering practical guidance that’s tailored to your specific operations and regulatory challenges.

The program delivers targeted consulting services tailored to each organization’s needs, focusing on three key areas: chart audit reviews, QAPI audit reviews, and mock surveys (for Medicare-certified and comprehensively licensed agencies).

Click here to learn more about the services and to register!

New Fueled Growth Partners Webinar Dates

Fueled Growth Partners has two upcoming Live Life Healthy Webinar dates. This is a great opportunity for MHCA members to learn how to enhance employee benefits, increase take-home pay, and reduce employer costs — all at ZERO net cost.

Please check out the webinars scheduled below:

March 3, 2026 — Live Life Healthy Webinar

March 10, 2026 —Live Life Healthy Webinar

Learn how to increase your cash flow and help MHCA keep your membership costs down. Book a meeting with Fueled Growth/Live Live Healthy.

  MEMBER CORNER

We Want to Hear From You: AI Listserv and Annual Meeting Poll

AI Listserv

If you haven’t had a chance yet, now’s the perfect time to answer our poll! Would you like MHCA to offer an AI/Tech Listserv? Take two minutes and let us know! Click here.

Annual Meeting

Help us improve our Annual Meeting, including where to hold it! Take our poll here.

Guidance on Sharing H2H Program Materials

Pediatric Home Service (PHS) has received a Minnesota Department of Human Services Hospital-to-Home grant to launch Journey Home, a new program focused on improving the transition from hospital to home for medically complex children who are receiving in-home nursing care for the first time.

Journey Home strengthens the discharge process by engaging nursing and interdisciplinary teams earlier, adding rapid deployment support, and expanding caregiver education, care management, and social work resources. The program aims to reduce avoidable hospitalizations and emergency department visits while improving family confidence and stability at home.

To learn more or refer a patient, visit the link here or contact the PHS nursing team at 651-642-1825.

  State news

Minnesota Revalidate 2026 Process

Minnesota Revalidate 2026 targets the 13 high-risk programs that were previously identified for an off-cycle revalidation by May 31, 2026. This includes Community First Services and Supports Agency and Personal Care Provider Organizations, Integrated Community Supports, and Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention Agencies. 

If you have not done so, check your MNITS mailbox for a letter stating you are required to go through a revalidation. If you have an outstanding enrollment request, delete that, and put all changes in one request to send with the revalidation. 

It’s important that you begin this process as soon as possible.

You should be prepared to upload the following to the MPSE portal:

1. Current License/certification
2. Certificate of Liability and Workers Comp coverage
3. Surety Bond, if required
4. Fingerprint-based Criminal Background Study for direct and indirect owners with an ownership of 5% or more are required IF they are new. If your provider type requires a fingerprint-based criminal background check for managers, employees or board of directors, this must be completed prior to submitting your revalidation. There is a required background study fee of $44 to submit each background study. There is also a fingerprint fee, which will vary depending on where the fingerprinting is obtained. These fees are separate from the application fee. Board of Directors need this comprehensive background study for CFSS and EDIBI programs.

MPSE Portal
When you are in the portal, you will be directed at what forms to complete based on the program revalidating for. Tab through and complete each section. DHS is hosting MPSE Technical Assistance Sessions. Agencies will be able to attend daily MPSE portal technical assistance sessions, held 1 – 1:30 p.m. on Microsoft Teams. The Monday, Wednesday, and Friday sessions will focus on questions relating to the off-cycle revalidation for high-risk service providers, and Tuesdays and Thursdays are available for general navigation questions. Revalidation navigation can be questioned at any session throughout the week. Click the link here to join the sessions; there is no fee or registration required and the link to join is the same for each session.

Fees
Pay the fee and upload the fee confirmation and the confirmation number. CMS requires states to charge an application fee if one was not already paid to another state or to Medicare. CMS also determines the application fee, and it is subject to change every calendar year. In 2026, the fee is $750 per practice location. DHS must receive your application fee before they can process your enrollment application.

Site Visits
Once this is completed, you will receive a notice that your site visit to confirm providers are operating as enrolled and meeting program requirements will be in the next 60 days. These are tips for a successful site visit with an Office of Inspector General (OIG) representative, who will have an ID badge:

1. Have your Business Hours posted.
2. Ensure you know which phone number is on file. If they arrive and no one is in the office, they will call the office number that is listed. If the designated manager can not come in at that time, the screener will return that week.
3. Have the following available for them to review: 

• Services offered
• Operational stats
• Required enrollment documentation
• Physical plan 
• Documentation storage
• Owner file
• Board of Directors’ members and meetings

Revalidation Complete Letter: After the provider passes the screening and unannounced site visit, DHS will complete the revalidation and send the Revalidation Complete Letter.

MHCA will continue to update members as the revalidation process continues.

MN-ITS Mailbox Update

On February 13, DHS posted an update reminding providers to frequently check a new folder in their MN–ITS mailbox for pre-payment review documentation requests. The message read as follows:

“We have begun placing letters in providers’ MN–ITS mailboxes requesting documentation for claims in the pre-payment review process. You should check your MN–ITS mailbox often to see if you’ve received any requests. You will find the letters in the PREPAYDOCREQUEST folder of your MN–ITS mailbox if you have received a request. The PREPAYDOCREQUEST folder will only appear in your MN–ITS mailbox if you have received a request. We may suspend future payments if you don’t reply to our request.”

Unauthorized Text Messages to Providers about Revalidation

The Department of Human Services (DHS) clarified this week that they have not authorized any vendors to assist with Minnesota Revalidate 2026 and does not use text messaging to communicate with providers. If you receive text messages from vendors about provider revalidation, they are an unauthorized source.

The department communicates with providers through provider news and updates, MN–ITS mailbox, email or U.S. Postal Service. If you are uncertain about the legitimacy of a provider revalidation request, call the Provider Resource Center at 651-431-2700 or 800-366-5411.

DHS Complex Transitions New ICS Referral Form

In recent months, the DHS Complex Transitions team has begun accepting expanded referrals for individuals who need additional support transitioning from Institutional Care Settings (ICS). The process was initially implemented through email, but DHS has now finalized a new referral form to streamline submissions for individuals, providers, and community partners.

The updated referral process can be used to request assistance from the Complex Transitions team for individuals who require extra support transitioning to community-based services due to program closures, evictions, service disruptions in residential settings, or other circumstances related to provider program integrity.

Click here to access the referral form.

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. Below are two upcoming Live Life Healthy Webinar dates. This is a great opportunity for MHCA members to learn how to enhance employee benefits, increase take-home pay, and reduce employer costs — all at ZERO net cost.

March 3, 2026 — Live Life Healthy Webinar Fueled Growth Partnership

March 10, 2026 —Live Life Healthy Webinar Fueled Growth Partnership 

If you’d prefer to schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your employee data click here.

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

August 3-4, 2026 – Blueprint for OASIS Accuracy, Plymouth

August 5, 2026 – COS-C Exam, Plymouth

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, February 4, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Submit a Nomination for MHCA’s Board of Directors

Tomorrow is the last day to submit nominations for MHCA’s Board of Directors! The selection works in a two-step process where after nominations come in, the candidates from those nominations are able to submit a full application for the Board.

Do you know someone who would be a strong candidate for MHCA Board of Directors or have you considered taking on the role? Ideal candidates are strategic thinkers with proven leadership skills and experience participating on MHCA committees and workgroups.

Board terms are for three years and will begin as soon as a candidate is elected.

Submit your nominations by tomorrow, February 5th, and be in charge of the leadership you want to see in 2026! 

Click here to submit a nomination.

Registration Open for 2026 Day at the Capitol

Join us for Day at the Capitol and Advocacy Week, an amazing opportunity to advocate on behalf of critical home care priorities and make a real impact on the home care community in Minnesota. 

The week begins with a virtual kickoff session on Tuesday, March 10, where participants will be briefed on home care issues and receive insights on how to advocate effectively. Then, on Thursday, March 12, we’ll come together in-person at the Capitol to meet with policymakers, share our stories, and raise awareness about the issues that matter most to the home care community.

Whether you’re a seasoned advocate or brand new to advocacy, this is your chance to learn, connect, and help shape the future of home care. Mentors will be available for those who want or need them – first-time advocates are encouraged to register!

For more information and to register, click here.

Register for MHCA’s New Regulatory Consulting Pilot Program

MHCA has launched a new Regulatory Consulting Program designed to provide members with customized, corrective support to strengthen regulatory compliance and improve survey readiness. The program delivers targeted consulting services tailored to each organization’s needs, focusing on three key areas: chart audit reviews, QAPI audit reviews, and mock surveys (for Medicare-certified and comprehensively licensed agencies).

Click here to learn more about the services and to register!

Apply for an MHCF Scholarship Before March 1!

Have you applied for Minnesota Home Care Foundation (MHCF)’s new Scholarship Program? The program is designed to support direct care, clinical, and administrative professionals through continuing education and certification opportunities. 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and are due March 1! Applications will be reviewed during the second week of March, with more opportunities to be awarded scholarships in June, September, and December.

Recipients will be awarded up to $200 toward a certification or continuing education course. Applicants must be a direct care or clinical support employee for an agency that is a member of the Minnesota Home Care Association and in a role that is in the line of nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social work, and/or administration.

For more information and to apply, click here.

Resource of the Month: Onboarding Materials

We've heard from our members that one of the most time-consuming tasks they have is onboarding new staff members, and it's caused agencies to shorten the onboarding process. 

This toolkit was developed by MHCA to support home care agencies in efficiently onboarding new employees. It provides general home care orientation materials intended to supplement the agency-specific training you provide.

Click here to access the materials.

New and Upcoming Education Opportunities

MHCA has several events over the next few months, including Emergency Tabletop Exercise, Day at the Capitol, Leadership Summit and more!  Be sure to check out the listings at the end of the Informer! 

MHCA has also entered into an agreement with CHAP for accreditation and education discounts.

  MHCA IN ACTION

MHCA Testifies at Senate Human Services Committee Hearing

MHCA was invited to testify at the Senate Human Services Committee hearing to address concerns about DHS’ prepayment review process. Executive Director Kathy Messerli opened by emphasizing the widespread challenges facing providers and the severe impact weeks of unpaid services have had on agencies and the clients who depend on them. Jaime Kummer, administrator/owner at River Valley Home Care and member of the MHCA Board of Directors, followed up with testimony of the problems the prepayment review process has caused for her home care agency and other MHCA members. 

MHCA stands firmly behind efforts to detect and eliminate fraud within the Medicaid program. Program integrity is essential. At the same time, access to needed and legitimate services must be protected. Legitimate providers must receive timely funding so that clients can continue to receive the care they desperately need.

We ask MHCA members to please contact both of Minnesota’s US Senators and your US Representative and ask them to put pressure on CMS to adopt a targeted, risk-based approach to identifying Medicaid fraud. We’ve updated our Advocacy Center to have a message written out for you to send, or you can contact your representatives in any similar way you’d prefer. You are encouraged to add a few specific examples of the impact facing your clients and agency, as stories are more powerful.

Thank you for your continued advocacy and commitment to Minnesota’s home care providers and the communities they serve.

Click here to access our Advocacy Center.

Why Supporting Home Care Champions Matters

State legislators make critical decisions that directly affect home care—funding, workforce policy, reimbursement rates, and regulatory oversight. Financially supporting candidates who understand and advocate for home care helps ensure our voice is heard at the Minnesota Capitol and our priorities stay front and center. The MN Home Care Political Action Committee (PAC) has closed down. 2026 is a general election year where all seats in both chambers of the Minnesota Legislature will be on the ballot and it’s imperative that legislators who will support home care are elected.

Good news: Minnesota offers a Political Contribution Refund (PCR) that makes giving easy and affordable. Individuals can receive a full refund for contributions up to $75 per person ($150 per couple) when donating to qualifying state candidates. That means you can support pro–home care leadership and get every dollar back.

Your participation strengthens our industry and helps elect leaders who will stand up for home care providers, workers, and the clients we serve.

Contact Kathy Messerli for more information.

 Compliance corner

MHCA Clarifies Integrated Licensure (245D)

Providers who choose to add a Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) designation to their home care license are referred to as holding an integrated license. An integrated license allows a provider to deliver certain 245D basic support services under their existing Minnesota Department of Health (MDH)-issued home care license.

This integration is intended to support home care providers who already serve home care clients and wish to offer basic support services as part of a broader care plan.

It is important to note that the HCBS designation does not replace the core requirements of a home care license. Providers must continue to meet all legal requirements for both the 144A home care license and the 245D.03 basic support services.

If you have any questions about this clarification, please contact MHCA’s Regulatory Affairs Manager.

Preview Reports and Star Rating Preview Reports Now Available In iQIES for the April 2026 Refresh of HH QRP Data

This is a reminder that the HHA Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports include provider performance scores for quality measures that will be published during the April 2026 refresh on Medicare.gov’s Compare Tool and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC).

Check Compliance Reports with HHAexchange

Agencies can track compliance details in HHAeXchange to recognize any issues with EVV. Click here to view the EVV Compliance Reports and their definitions.

If you are looking to review why a visit is not compliant, HHAeXchange recommends the “EVV Compliance Detail Report” which only displays visits with exceptions applied.

  State news

Addressing Immigration Enforcement in Minnesota Communities

MHCA stands with all Minnesotans in expressing deep concern about the recent enforcement operations involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in our communities. We recognize that the situation has created uncertainty and anxiety for families, health care workers, patients, and neighbors — regardless of background — and we share the priority that everyone’s safety and access to care must be respected and protected.

MHCA urges all levels of government — federal, state, and local — to work collaboratively to ensure that enforcement actions do not interfere with health care delivery, do not deter people from seeking medical attention, and do not undermine community safety. We encourage calm, lawful engagement with authorities, and we stand ready to partner with elected officials and public health leaders to protect the well-being of patients and providers across Minnesota.

Here are a couple of websites shared at the Metro Coalition meeting that can be used to see if ICE is nearby for visits:

Department of Labor and Industry Meal Break Policy

Effective January 1, state law requires employers to provide employees with time to use the restroom and to take meal breaks. Breaks lasting less than 20 minutes must be counted as hours worked and paid. To be unpaid, longer breaks must fully relieve employees of all work duties. See the link here for information on 2026 updates and FAQs regarding rest and meal breaks.

Minnesota Revalidate 2026

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is launching a major new initiative aimed at strengthening oversight of Medicaid providers and ensuring program integrity. The effort, called Minnesota Revalidate 2026, focuses on revalidating providers enrolled in the state’s highest-risk programs to combat fraud. 

Minnesota Revalidate 2026 targets 13 high-risk programs that must complete off-cycle revalidation by May 31, 2026:

1. Adult Day Care 
2. Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services 
3. Assertive Community Treatment 
4. Community First Services and Supports Agency and Personal Care Provider Organizations
5. Companion Care
6. Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention Agencies
7. Individualized Home Supports
8. Integrated Community Supports
9. Intensive Residential Treatment
10. Night Supervision
11. Non-Emergency Medical Transportation
12. Peer Recovery
13. Recuperative Care 

Minnesota Revalidate 2026 is an unprecedented effort to compress a typically three-year process into four months that encompasses all providers in the 13 identified programs.

DHS notified all affected providers through their MN-ITS mailbox or by U.S. mail.

Provider Enrollment Frozen for 13 Medicaid Services

The Minnesota Department of Human Services will freeze new provider enrollments in 13 Medicaid service categories identified as having a high risk of fraud. The department is working with the U.S. Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to implement the freeze, after which the state will stop accepting new applications from businesses seeking to offer these services. To ensure Minnesotans continue to have access to critical care statewide, the department will grant exceptions in areas where additional provider capacity is needed. All exceptions will require written approval from CMS.

Click here for more information.

DHS Releases Reminders for Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) Home Services

DHS sent out reminders last week about MHCP covered services delivered in the home. These reminders read as follows:

• If you are an MHCP-enrolled provider of services eligible to be provided at home, you can bill for visits provided at place of service 12 even if you have not done so previously.
• MHCP-enrolled providers use place of service 12 when billing for a home visit. Place of service 12 is inclusive of any location, other than a hospital or other facility, where the patient receives care in a private residence.
• Providers do not need to document or provide information on the patient’s home address when billing for home visits.
• All the required components of the billing code or service must be provided to bill. Not all visits are appropriate in place of service 12.

Special note about Evaluation and Management (E&M) services

E&M services can be provided for members at home for any reason. Home visit E&M codes are covered for new and existing patients.

Medical Assistance and MinnesotaCare Roundtable Changing to Weekly Meetings

Due to a clear community need for a more frequent and responsive point of contact with enrolled providers, the provider and community roundtable call will transition from a monthly to a weekly schedule.

This new schedule will allow DHS to share timely updates and hear directly from providers during this especially busy period.

This new cadence began January 29 and will continue until further notice. The calls will be held every Thursday from 10:00–10:45 a.m.

DHS asks that you use mhcp.roundtables.dhs@state.mn.us to share the names and email addresses of provider and community organization colleagues who should attend these calls.

DHS Updates Disability Waiver Amendment Approval and Implementation Timelines

DHS is providing updates and clarifying the implementation timelines for the following waivers with amendments currently under CMS review:

• Community Alternative Care (CAC)
• Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI)
• Developmental Disabilities (DD)

To view the updates, click here.

Reminder: Check Your MN-ITS Mailbox

With all the changes happening for Minnesota health care providers, this is a reminder to routinely check your MN-ITS mailbox. This will ensure you stay updated in all that might affect your agency.

  federal news

Telehealth Flexibilities Update

On January 30, Congress entered a brief shutdown period while finalizing an agreement to continue funding the government. Therefore, telehealth flexibilities were paused that day. However, a budget bill was passed February 3 that approved telehealth, retroactive to January 30. 

It is expected that it will take some time for CMS to implement the parameters of the hospice F2F flexibilities. For home health agencies, it extends provisions removing geographic requirements and expanding originating sites through December 31, 2027. 

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. To schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your actual employee data  click here. 

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, January 21, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

MHCA’s New Regulatory Consulting Pilot Program

MHCA has launched a new Regulatory Consulting Program designed to provide members with customized, corrective support to strengthen regulatory compliance and improve survey readiness. The program delivers targeted consulting services tailored to each organization’s needs, focusing on three key areas: chart audit reviews, QAPI audit reviews, and mock surveys (for Medicare-certified and comprehensively licensed agencies).

Click here to learn more about the services and to register!

MHCF Scholarship Applications Due March 1

Applications for Minnesota Home Care Foundation (MHCF)’s new Scholarship Program are due March 1! The program is designed to support direct care, clinical, and administrative professionals through continuing education and certification opportunities. 

Applications are accepted on a rolling basis and will be reviewed during the second week of March, with more opportunities to be awarded scholarships in June, September, and December.

Recipients will be awarded up to $200 toward a certification or continuing education course. Applicants must be: 

• A direct care or clinical support employee for an agency that is a member of the Minnesota Home Care Association
• In a role that is in the line of nursing, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, social work, and/or administration

Click here for more information and to apply!

Leadership Summit Registration Now Open

Today’s healthcare leaders face constant change; conflict within teams, leadership transitions, rapid technological advances, and increasing operational pressure. This Leadership Summit brings together four powerful sessions designed to strengthen your leadership foundation, sharpen your communication skills, and prepare your organization for the future. 

From mastering difficult conversations and navigating conflict, to protecting your agency through succession planning and leading with resilience in an AI-accelerated world, this event equips leaders with practical tools they can apply immediately. Whether you're an established leader or an aspiring one, this event will give you the knowledge to thrive in your role.

Register here.

Last Chance! Register for the VBP Webinar tomorrow with Melinda Gaboury!

Numerous factors contribute to the calculation of Medicare reimbursement under the Patient Driven Groupings Model (PDGM), as well as various other programs that can also impact reimbursement. This session will review the details of these programs and how they directly impact reimbursement for home health agencies. Don’t miss it!

Register here.

Help Raise Your Star Rating

Our upcoming workshop can help agencies that have a star rating of 3 or less. These sessions will focus on your agency’s VBP reimbursement roadblocks and target the issues that you are encountering. The first session will focus on creating a QAPI plan that will focus on your highest impact quality problems. The second session will review the progress made from the previous 60 days and make changes to your PIP or start a new one.

The key to this training is to understand when and how to choose the key outcomes under value-based purchasing that will best affect your star rating and improve financial performance overall.  

We hope you will join us! Register here.

  MEMBER CORNER

Seeking Member Interest - AI Listserv

Please answer our poll! Would you like MHCA to offer an AI/Tech Listserv? This poll will take less than 2 minutes to answer. Click here.

 COMMITTEE UPDATES

Survey Watch Group to Meet March 4

Have you recently been surveyed? Are you anxiously waiting for a survey and hoping to learn from others about what the State is looking for? Join our meet-up group organized by the Clinical, Rehab, & Regulatory Committee! All MHCA members are welcome. The next meeting will be held Wednesday, March 4, from 1-2 p.m. 

Please sign up here and the Zoom information will be emailed to you. If you have any topics you would like covered during the meeting or are willing to share your recent survey experience, please let us know!

  State news

Situational Awareness: ICE Presence

MHCA took part in the presentation by the Health Care Coalition on situational/community awareness regarding the presence of ICE in Minnesota. The coalition recommended that agencies activate their emergency plan if they have not already done so. If agencies are not activating their emergency plan, the coalition leaders recommend that agency leadership offers information to their employees on what to do if they are stopped by ICE, or if ICE comes to see a patient in their home or facility.

Fredrikson’s Senior Immigration Lawyer, Matthew Webster, just presented on How to Prepare for Immigration Enforcement at Your Worksite and in Your Community for MHCA. You can access this free webinar here. We are including some great resources for addressing ICE:

• Know Your Rights with ICE
• Immigration Enforcement Preparedness Resources
• KATANA Safety | Protect Your Lone Workers 
• TurnSignl (On-Demand Lawyer App)
• Know Your Rights Wallet Card 
• Warrants and Subpoenas: What to Look Out for and How To Respond 
• Know Your Rights: Health Care Providers & Immigration Enforcement 
• A Guide for Employers: What to Do if Immigration Comes to Your Workplace

Economic Blackout January 23

Faith leaders, union representatives and community members are calling for a Day of Truth and Freedom on Friday, January 23, urging all Minnesotans not to go to work, school, or shopping. MHCA strongly encourages agencies to take potential liability and ethical issues into consideration and address this with your employees, emphasizing that clients are counting on them. 

Prepayment Updates

After speaking with DHS, we have gained some clarity on why many providers are seeing inconsistent or missing payments last week.

The primary issue stems from the timing of the most recent warrant cycle, which technically ran through midnight on December 25, 2025. Because the cycle ended on the second of two consecutive holidays, DHS processed payments differently than usual:

• The December 23rd Deadline: The payments issued January 13th only account for "clean claims" submitted by midnight on 12/23/25.
• The December 24th and 25th Deadline: According to DHS, roughly 40% of all claims were submitted in the final 48 hours of the cycle (12/24–12/25). These claims were not included in last week's disbursement.

There was nothing in the published 2025 warrant cycle calendar to indicate an early deadline of 12/23, which explains why so many providers were caught off guard.

This explains the high level of inconsistency we are seeing across the board. It appears that payment issues do not seem to be tied to specific service types, but rather strictly to the timing of submission.

This has been elevated to the highest levels of state government. It is currently the top priority for Commissioner Gandhi, Deputy Commissioner Connolly, and the Governor’s Office.

What we are doing now:

• We have formally inquired if DHS can authorize an additional payment release this week to cover the remaining 40% of claims.
  
• DHS indicated they would review the feasibility of an off-cycle payment.
  

As for the current payment plan:

• Payments for unflagged claims and cleared flagged claims from the Dec. 13 - Dec. 23 warrant cycle were made on Jan. 13, 2026.
• Payments for unflagged claims and cleared flagged claims from the Jan. 13 warrant cycle will be released on Jan. 27, 2026.
• Unflagged and cleared flagged claims from the following warrant cycle will be paid on February 10.

To provide additional detail, "cleared flagged claims" are those that Optum flagged for DHS review, and DHS was able to review and release them for payment.

Updates are provided on the DHS website.

UCare Update

MHCA has received an update on the UCare 2025 payments. There is a court approved process for UCare’s Rehabilitation. We believe that a payment plan will be announced in the next month or two, once approved by the courts and are hopeful that you will receive at least partial payments for the last portion of December 2025. 

There is some mis-information being shared about the impact of the UCare rehabilitation process. DHS has informed MHCA that an issue with entering service agreements has been resolved. For those concerned about UCare not having funds available to cover outstanding claims from 2025, we have learned that UCare will receive substantial receivables in July and August 2026. Lastly, we are also aware that there is a concern that the large systems who filed motions seeking injunctive relief will be the first to receive payments. We have been assured that the rehabilitation process treats all providers equally; this process is different than bankruptcy. 

Please continue to monitor this website for all updates. 

Minnesota Appeals CMS Decision to Withhold $2 Billion in Medicaid Investments

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is appealing a decision by the Trump Administration to withhold more than $2 billion in annual Medicaid funding from the state.

The withholding was announced last week in a social media video by Dr. Mehmet Oz, Administrator of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). In the video, he claimed that Minnesota has not taken sufficient action to combat fraud within its Medicaid program.

This happens after the state took action to meet the steps CMS outlined in a December letter to address program integrity concerns. However, Administrator Oz has determined that DHS’ efforts are insufficient.
The state has formally appealed the CMS decision, and the federal agency is now required to schedule a hearing.

Details and updates on the DHS’ program integrity work are available on the Medicaid program integrity webpage.

PCA and CFSS Tiered Wage Floor Update

On December 30, 2025, DHS issued an eList announcement stating that the new tiered wage floors in the PCA Choice and CFSS budget model would not take effect until federal approval of the 2026 rates is received.  A DHS representative stated they were paying the 2026 tiered rates effective January 1, 2026 while they work to obtain federal approval with that effective date. MHCA is hearing that providers are not receiving the increased rate and is looping back to DHS for clarity.

The CFSS tiered rates have been updated as published in the Long-Term Services and Supports Service Rate Limits (DHS-3945) . Claims will be adjusted if federal approval of the new rates is not obtained.

DHS Announces New Weekly Provider E-Newsletter

DHS is releasing a new weekly e-newsletter titled MHCP Provider Connect, aimed at keeping Minnesota Health Care Program (MHCP) providers updated on DHS actions. 

Click here for more information and to sign up for the newsletter.

Changes to MHCP Provider website

Note the following changes to the MHCP Provider website:

• Community First Services and Supports (CFSS): In the Service Authorization section, DHS updated the text to specify that providers must check member eligibility on a monthly basis. DHS also updated the Documentation sections for CFSS provider agencies and FMS providers. DHS removed the CFSS provider report from the CFSS provider agencies section and replaced it with MnCHOICES assessment information. DHS added instructions requiring FMS providers to include receipts and invoices for all goods and services.
• Personal Care Assistant (PCA) Services: DHS revised the Documentation Requirements section by removing the PCA assessment and service plan form DHS 3244 and replacing it with the CFSS Assessment form (DHS 6893A) (PDF).
• DHS also updated Provider News and archived December 30, 2025 – January 12, 2026 News.
• The MHCP Fee Schedule has also been updated.

Aging and Adult Services Division (AASD) and Disability Services Division (DSD) Updates

The AASD and DSD included the following updates in their weekly release:
Reminder: Minnesota direct care staffing shortage impact annual survey

• Audience: People receiving any type of direct care service and other interested parties
• Survey deadline: Feb. 1, 2026
• Summary: DHS is conducting an optional, anonymous survey to collect feedback on how the direct care staffing shortage impacts people who receive supports.
  

CFSS implementation updates 

• Audience: People who receive personal care assistance (PCA), Consumer Support Grant (CSG) and CFSS services, families, providers, lead agencies and other interested parties
• Summary: DHS began the transition from PCA and CSG to CFSS on Oct. 1, 2024. We will provide regular updates throughout the transition.

New resources to help people receiving support increase communication skills 

• Audience: Lead agencies, service providers and other interested parties
• Summary: DHS created two new optional resources to help people receiving support increase their communication skills.

MDH Updates Resources for Emergency Preparedness

Updated resources for emergency preparedness are now live on the MDH website. See the link here for updated information.

  federal news

Sign-On Bonus Caution

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Office of Inspector General (OIG) recently issued Advisory Opinion 25-12, offering an important caution for home care providers around recruitment incentives. The opinion reviewed a proposed arrangement in which a home care agency planned to offer sign-on bonuses to prospective caregivers, many of whom were expected to be family members of individuals receiving Medicaid-funded services. Because those caregivers would effectively be selecting the agency to provide care for their relatives, OIG determined the bonuses could improperly influence provider choice.

OIG concluded the arrangement would present a significant risk under the federal Anti-Kickback Statute and the Beneficiary Inducements Civil Monetary Penalty law. While sign-on bonuses are generally permissible as part of normal employment recruitment, OIG found that in this case the bonuses were closely tied to securing Medicaid-reimbursed business, rather than purely to hiring staff. The fact that the bonuses were publicly advertised and targeted toward individuals likely to direct services to the agency was a key concern.

For home care providers, the advisory opinion underscores the need for caution when structuring recruitment incentives, particularly in consumer-directed or family caregiver models. Incentives that appear routine in a competitive labor market can raise compliance concerns if they are perceived as influencing a beneficiary’s choice of provider. Providers should carefully review bonus programs with legal counsel to ensure they are clearly separated from referral or provider-selection decisions involving federally funded services.

Veteran Affairs (VA) Releases Guidance on Implementation of Elizabeth Dole Act

On January 9, 2026, the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) released guidance on implementing the Elizabeth Dole 21st Century Veterans Healthcare and Benefits Improvement Act of 2025 (Public Law 118-210). The Dole Act, which was signed into law in January 2025, increased the statutory cap on how much VA may pay for home care services from 65% of the nursing home rate to 100% of the rate.  As a result, the VA may now spend the same amount on home care services for veterans as it would for institutional care, based on the regional nursing home rate. 

The guidance also identifies the home care services covered under this benefit, including Homemaker/Home Health Aide, Home Respite, Community Adult Day Health Care, Veteran Directed Care, Skilled Home Health Care, and the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly.
Click here to access the guidance document.

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. To schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your actual employee data  click here .

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, January 7, 2026

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

  State news

  federal news

OASIS Version E2 Updates

CMS has released information for OASIS Version E2, with a scheduled implementation date of April 1, 2026.

The Outcome and Assessment Information Set Version E2 (OASIS-E2) Data Submission Specifications, Version 3.02.0, are now available in the Downloads section of the OASIS Data Sets page on the CMS website.

For additional details, review the OASIS-E2 Guidance Manual, as well as the Item Change and Edit Change reports included in the data specifications. A draft version of the OASIS-E2 Guidance Manual, effective April 1, 2026, is also available on the CMS page linked here.

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. To schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your actual employee data click here.

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, December 17, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

MHCA Executive Director, Kathy Messerli, to Retire in Spring 2026

It is with heartfelt gratitude that we announce the bittersweet news of Kathy Messerli’s retirement. After 11 ½ years of extraordinary leadership and service, Kathy has decided to begin a well-deserved chapter of rest and new adventures in May 2026.

Under Kathy’s guidance, our association has achieved significant milestones, including major wins at the state capital (increase funding and awareness of home care), successfully navigating a global pandemic, membership growth, and aligning committee work with MHCA’s strategic plan. Kathy’s fresh vision and strategy for the association, along with the countless ways she has supported members, will positively impact home care in Minnesota for years to come.

Transition Plan:
To ensure a smooth transition, the Board of Directors has put a thoughtful plan in place. 

• Search Process: A search committee has been formed to identify the next Executive Director who will continue advancing our mission. • Timeline: Kathy has given us the gift of time to ensure we find the perfect fit for our future leader, and we expect that they will be able to start before Kathy’s official departure. We anticipate posting the position around the first of the year and completing the transition in May. We will keep you updated along the way. A Message from Kathy:

“It has been an incredible honor to serve this association and to be part of the home care community. Throughout my time here, you have continually inspired me with your perseverance, compassion, and unwavering commitment to those who depend on your care.

I am deeply grateful for the trust you have placed in me and for the shared work that has strengthened our industry and elevated the voices of those we serve.

Over the next several months, I look forward to continuing to support you and to actively participate in a smooth and successful transition. Our association is strong because of you, and I am confident it will continue to thrive in the years ahead.

Thank you for the privilege of serving alongside you.”

On behalf of the entire association, we wish Kathy all the best in retirement and thank her for her extraordinary service.

Olga Baumberger and Darla Thompson Finish Terms on MHCA Board of Directors

The MHCA’s Board of Directors recognized Olga Baumberger and Darla Thompson. Olga has served on the Board since 2021, and Darla since 2022.

Thank you, Olga and Darla, for your service. Your leadership has made a lasting impact, and we’re glad you’ll continue to serve on the Advocacy Committee.

2026 VBP/Star Rating Education

MN ranks 37th in the country in star ratings. Register for 1:1 guidance on YOUR agency’s VBP reimbursement roadblocks to help your bottom line and your star rating. The workshop will focus on the most prevalent, highest-impact quality problems. During the first workshop you will create a QAPI plan and then come back together after 2 months of implementing the plan to review the progress made.

Register here.

How to Prepare for Immigration Enforcement

Did you miss the ICE webinar this morning? Please reach out to mstenberg@mnhomecare.org for access to the recording.

  MHCA IN ACTION

MHCA Supports Advocacy Against Medica Cuts for Medical Complexities

Medica is implementing a new coverage cap for children with medical complexities who are enrolled in Medica with Medical Assistance (MA) as secondary coverage. The policy limits children to very few hours of in-home nursing care, effectively eliminating access to medically necessary home-based nursing under their policy. 

MHCA is participating in a press conference today, where we will advocate against this limited coverage. Our goals are to ensure that children have access to services, hospitals aren’t forced to delay discharges, and parents aren’t forced to leave the workforce to provide care. 

  MEMBER CORNER

You Have Two Weeks to Renew Your MHCA Membership!

Renew your membership today to maintain uninterrupted access to our education, advocacy, and support throughout 2026.

Log in to your agency account and click the “Renew Your Membership Here” button.

If you have any questions, please contact lpause@mnhomecare.org.

Member Benefit Reminder: Locate a Provider Member!

Want to connect with a fellow home care professional? In these changing times, learning from one another is more valuable than ever—and MHCA makes it easy.

On our website, you can access a sortable directory to find provider members similar to you. Just visit the MHCA home page, scroll down, and select “Locate a Provider Member.” From there, you can filter by agency type, service area, payers, and more to find members who may be helpful to connect with.

Be sure to keep your own agency information up to date as well, so fellow providers can easily find and connect with you.

 Committee Updates

2026 Committees Appointed

The MHCA Board of Directors has appointed the committees for next year. If you were assigned to a committee, you will have received an email with this information last week. If you were hoping to serve on a committee and did not receive an email, please contact Matt Oberdalhoff.

 Compliance corner

December Newsletter for Expanded HHVBP Model

The Preliminary October 2025 IPRs for the expanded HHVBP Model were released in the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES) on December 1, 2025. The CY 2025 measure set is now in effect as of October 2025. Click the link here to access important updates on the CY 2026 measure set, the revised HHVBP Model Guide, expanded HHVBP Model FAQs, and new web-based training resources.

  State news

Final Reminder: Paid Leave Starts January 1

Your agency should be prepared for the new Minnesota Paid Leave program. Paid Leave is a required program that provides payments and job protections to people who need time away from work for their own health or to care for a family member. It is comprised of Medical Leave and Family Leave. Employers and employees will contribute to the program and the state pays employees directly when they utilize that benefit. 

The state anticipates opening applications early for all parents who welcomed a child in 2025, as they will be eligible for this program. If you have questions, you can reference the November 5th Informer or go to the Paid Leave site for employers.

DHS News Release States Licensing Pause Will Improve Oversight of HCBS

Following an unprecedented increase in license applications from home and community-based human services providers, the Minnesota Department of Human Services will implement a two-year pause on issuing new licenses to strengthen oversight of existing providers. The pause will begin in January 2026 and is expected to remain in place through December 2027. See the article linked here for more details on which services are included in this moratorium.

DHS provided a clarification that the temporary moratorium is specifically for HCBS – 245D providers and does not affect licensed providers who have submitted enrollment applications to Minnesota Health Care Programs (MHCP) Provider Eligibility and Compliance. Review the Licensing for HCBS – 245D providers webpage or call the MHCP Provider Resource Center at 651-431-2700 or 800-366-5411, option 4, if you have questions.

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. To schedule a personal presentation and get a no cost/commitment proposal based on your actual employee data click here. 

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

• December 3, 2025 – Member Meeting + Free Education: Ask About Pets! – A Training for Home Care Staff & Organizations, Virtual

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, December 3, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

CY2026 Home Health Final Rule

Late Friday afternoon the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued the calendar year (CY) 2026 Home Health Prospective Payment System Rate and Durable Medical Equipment, Prosthetics, Orthotics, and Supplies Competitive Bidding Program Updates. In past years, CMS published the HH Final Rule on or about November 1. The HH Final Rule was delayed this year due to the government shutdown.

Here are a few highlights:

• The aggregated payment update for 2026 results in a net decrease of 1.3%.

• Face-to-face rules are expanded so that NPs, CNSs, PAs, and physicians may conduct encounters regardless of whether they are the certifying practitioner.

• CMS is revising HHVBP by removing three HHCAHPS-based measures, adding four new measures, and updating measure weights, while also adding a new criterion for removing quality measures.

More information is available in our blast that was sent out yesterday, linked here.

Medicare Reimbursement Webinar 1/22/26

Numerous factors contribute to the calculation of Medicare reimbursement under the Patient Driven Groupings Model (PDGM), as well as various other programs that can also impact reimbursement:

• Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP),

• Home Health Care Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HHCAHPS), and

• Home Health Quality Reporting Program (HHQRP)

This session will review the details of these programs and how they directly impact reimbursement for home health agencies.

Register here.

2026 Hot Topics Registration is Open!

Please re-register for the 2026 Hot Topics so you can choose the topics applicable to you. Please reach out to education@mnhomecare.org with any questions.

2026 Emergency Tabletop Exercise: Safety and Workplace Violence

This exercise consists of three short scenarios:

• An event/emergency in the community that impacts access to/from service area.

• Violent threat in the home office.

• Verbally or physically aggressive person in the home.

Who should attend? Leadership, HR/Personnel Manager, Nurse Leaders, Clinicians, Office Staff, Field Staff, Front Desk Receptionist and anyone else who would benefit from safety education.

Register here.

  MHCA IN ACTION

Minnesota Leadership Council on Aging’s 2025 Summit

Leaders are stepping forward to shape what comes next for our state’s aging sector. The conversations are personal. The challenges are complex. The need for changemakers with a diversity of vantage points in our community has never been greater.

You are invited to join the Minnesota Home Care Association at the Summit, where you will connect with voices from every corner of Minnesota to ask bold questions, explore powerful solutions, and build momentum for collective action. Register now to attend the 2025 Summit:

• Virtual Day - December 10 (11 a.m. – 2 p.m.) via Zoom

• In-Person Day - December 16 (9 a.m. – 2 p.m.) at St. Catherine University

Learn more: https://www.mnlcoa.org/2025Summit

Register now: https://www.zeffy.com/ticketing/2025-summit

  MEMBER CORNER

Don’t Forget to Renew Your MHCA Membership!

Renew your membership today to maintain uninterrupted access to our education, advocacy, and support throughout 2026.

Log in to your agency account and click the “Renew Your Membership Here” button.

If you have any questions, please contact lpause@mnhomecare.org.

 Compliance corner

Data Refresh of HH QRP Available

Due to the lapse in federal appropriations, scheduled data refreshes and other routine updates were temporarily paused. Now that government operations have resumed as of November 13, these updates are being released.

Effective November 20, 2025, the October 2025 HH QRP refresh is available on the Compare tool on Medicare.gov and in the Provider Data Catalog (PDC).

This update reflects quality assessment data submitted by HHAs to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for Quarter 1 through Quarter 4 of 2024.

  State news

DHS Roundtable Information on Prepayment Review Process

DHS has shared information surrounding the prepayment review process at their November roundtable discussion. The link provided here includes the slides from the meeting and information on how Optum will be used for auditing.  The state agency also launched a new website to add transparency in the work they are doing to prevent fraud. It details how they are strengthening fraud prevention, detection, and enforcement by providing:

• Clear definitions for fraud, waste and abuse

• A timeline of actions taken

• Key decisions made that support transparency, prevention, detection and enforcement

• Information on preliminary investigations, cases opened, law enforcement referrals and administrative actions.

Reminder: Minneapolis Minimum Wage Increase

The Minneapolis minimum wage will be increased to $16.37 in 2026 to adjust for inflation. These changes will take effect on January 1.

DHS Resources Webpage for Federal Changes

The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has a webpage that provides information and resources about the federal changes for Medicaid. The webpage can be accessed here.

Minnesota Eligibility Policy Manual Updates

The Minnesota Eligibility Policy Manual (EPM) has an update to the following sections:

2.3.1.2 MA-ABD Asset Verification Service (AVS)

DHS clarified that individuals with 1619(a) or 1619(b) status are not required to have a valid DHS-7823 form on file or an AVS ad-hoc request run at application or renewal.

2.3.3.2.8 MA-ABD Asset Verification

Bulletin 24-21-04 DHS Clarifies Minnesota Health Care Programs Income and Asset Verification Policies for Certain People is now incorporated into this new EPM section.

Appendix F Standards and Guidelines

DHS revised the following standards and guidelines that become effective January 1, 2026.

• Clothing and Personal Needs Allowance

• Pickle Disregard

• Remedial Care Expense

• Special Income Standard

• Supplemental Security Income Maximum Payment Amount

  federal news

Is Nursing a Professional Degree?

One of the components of H.R. 1, otherwise known as the Big Beautiful Bill, included narrowing the definition of a “professional” degree and therefore eligibility for loans. The Department of Education has drafted regulatory language that will apply to new borrowers starting July 1, 2026. The Minnesota Home Care Association (MHCA) fully recognizes that nurses are professionals and should not be excluded from loans. In addition to the disrespect reflected in this proposal, this is alarming for home health and other healthcare providers, as it comes in the midst of a critical shortage of nurses.

There is a process that needs to be followed before this change would be implemented, including:

1. Public Comment Period: There will be a period (in the coming months) for the public, including individuals, universities, and healthcare organizations, to submit formal comments and objections to the proposed definition of a professional degree.

2. Review of Comments: The Department of Education is required to review and consider all comments received during this period.

3. Final Rule: After reviewing the public comments, the Department of Education will issue a final rule, which may include adjustments based on the feedback.

4. Implementation: The final rule will take effect for new student loan borrowers starting July 1, 2026.

MHCA is following this closely and will collaborate with the National Alliance for Care at Home on advocacy efforts to block this proposed change.

CMS Releases CIB on H.R.1 Provisions that Impact Medicaid

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) released a Center Informational Bulletin (CIB) on November 19 that summarizes the provisions within H.R.1 that impact Medicaid. The bulletin does not offer new details on CMS’s implementation plans; rather, it serves as a comprehensive reference for all the different H.R.1 provisions that impact the Medicaid program. Most notably, it includes a table that outlines all of the different effective dates of the legislation provisions. Please see the copy of the table for information. 

  Educational Opportunities

MHCA Partnerships

Fueled Growth Partners is a company that provides a net zero cost supplemental health care plan with amazing benefits, while providing revenue to MHCA. Attend one of their webinars to learn more!

December 16, 2025 - The Future of Healthcare at Net ZERO Cost, Webinar

Fueled Growth Partnership 

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

• December 3, 2025 – Member Meeting + Free Education: Ask About Pets! – A Training for Home Care Staff & Organizations, Virtual

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, November 19, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Save-the-Date: February 25, 2026 Member Meeting – Free Emergency Tabletop Exercise

Save-the-date! Our annual emergency tabletop exercise will be held on February 25 and will be conducted by Regional Healthcare Preparedness Coordinators Emily  Moilanen and Ken Combs.

We also have a Member Meeting set for December. Have you registered yet? If not, click here!

  MHCA IN ACTION

Save-the-Date: Day at the Capitol Scheduled for March 10 and 12

The Annual Day at the Capitol will be a two-part event taking place on March 10 and 12! This is a fantastic opportunity to meet with legislators and advocate for policies that preserve and strengthen the home care industry in our state.

We’ll kick things off with a virtual preparation session on March 10 at 10:30am, where MHCA will share key materials and talking points to help you make the most of your conversations with lawmakers during the in-person portion on March 12.

Mark your calendar to drive meaningful change for Minnesota’s home care community. 

  MEMBER CORNER

MHCA Membership Renewals

Remember that it is renewal season at MHCA! Renew your membership today to ensure continued access to our education, advocacy, and support in 2026.

Log in to your agency’s account here and select the “Renew your Membership Here” button. Please reach out to lpause@mnhomecare.org if you have any questions!

  State news

New Paid Leave and Minimum Wage Posters Available

Beginning January 1, 2026, Minnesota’s minimum wage will be adjusted for inflation to $11.41 per hour for all employers statewide. The 90-day training wage for employees under age 20 will rise to $9.31 per hour.

Some cities, such as Minneapolis and St. Paul, have local minimum wages that are higher than the state rate. Care providers working in those areas must be paid according to the minimum wage in the city where the service is provided. Further research of your own city's minimum wage is recommended.

Along with the updated Minimum Wage poster, a new Paid Leave poster is now available. Both posters are mandatory and offered in five languages.

Under Minnesota law, employers must display all required workplace posters in a location that is clearly visible and accessible to employees.

The posters are available to print or ordered for free from the Department of Labor and Industry website. They are available individually or as part of a poster pack.

FAQs on the DHS Pre-Payment Review Process

The DHS has added a Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) page to its website addressing inquiries about the Pre-Payment Review process announced by the Governor last week. Click here to access the FAQs.

If you experience any significant delays during this process, please let us know.

  federal news

Federal Government Re-Opening Updates

On November 12, the House passed the Senate Amendment to H.R. 5371, the Continuing Appropriations and Extensions Act, and formally ended the 43-day government shutdown. The following is the information that affects home care:

Telehealth Flexibilities Reinstated

The bill retroactively reinstates the Medicare telehealth flexibilities from the COVID-19 era through January 30, 2026, which had previously expired on September 30, 2025. For home health agencies, this restores the waiver of the originating site and geographic restrictions under section 1834(m), permitting face-to-face encounters to be conducted broadly via telehealth.

Veteran Affairs (VA) Reimbursements

The full-year appropriations for the Veterans Administration provide greater certainty for the continued stability of VA health services. The continuing resolution (CR) includes funding for the Department of Defense, which administers TriCare. During the shutdown, TriCare was unable to process or pay medical claims; this funding will allow reimbursement for services rendered between October 1, 2025, through the end of the CR.

Commence Health Domain Change

Commence health website has transitioned to a new domain due to their new organizational identity. The new website is accessible at: https://www.commencehealthqio.cms.gov/en

  Educational Opportunities

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

January 22, 2026 - Reimbursement, Webinar

February 25, 2026 - Member Meeting + Free Emergency Preparedness Tabletop Exercise, Virtual

March 10, 2026 - Home Care Day at the Capitol, Virtual

March 12, 2026 - Home Care Day at the Capitol, In-Person

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, November 5, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

November is National Home Care Month!

Happy National Care at Home Month! Be sure to recognize yourself and your fellow employees—in the office, in the field, and/or on social media.

Home Health Care QAPI Performance Improvement Project Team Leader Playbook

This comprehensive guide is tailored to the unique challenges of home health care Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiatives, providing actionable strategies through:

• Clear explanations of CMS QAPI regulations.

• Effective techniques for data-driven decision-making.

• Proven methods to apply quality improvement tools for impactful results.

With practical worksheets, case studies, and real-world examples, this playbook focuses on delivering efficient strategies and tangible outcomes to help agencies optimize results and exceed benchmarks. Empower your team and elevate patient care—one quality improvement at a time.

Click here and scroll down to receive the discounted rate.

Using QAPI Teams to Improve HHVBP Scores - Lunch and Learn November 19

Of the 55 states and territories included in the first public CMS HHVBP reporting period, Minnesota home health care agencies ranked 37th —but that can change.

Join this fast-paced, practical session to discover how well-designed and well-led Performance Improvement Teams (PIPs) — a CMS QAPI requirement — can drive measurable gains in HHVBP and Star Rating metrics.

Let’s turn Minnesota’s scores around—one high-impact PIP team at a time.

Register for free here.

  MHCA IN ACTION

MHCA Attends HOSA Conference

More than 1,100 high school students attended the HOSA - Future Health Professionals conference and MHCA was honored to participate as we build awareness of home care careers. A big thank you to volunteers from  Triniti Home Health & Hospice, Service Management Group (formerly Accra Home Health), and Pediatric Home Services who hosted a session teaching students how to do medication set-up, injections, and monitor the safety in the home, as well as staff a booth where they were able to practice nursing skills on mannequins. The "Thick-it Challenge" continues to be a hit with students!

  MEMBER CORNER

MHCA Membership Renewal Begins November 4

It's renewal season for MHCA! Emails were sent out yesterday that detail how to renew your membership. Renewal emails for business partners will be sent out next week.

If you have any questions about renewal, feel free to reach out to lpause@mnhomecare.org. We look forward to serving you in 2026!

Participate in the National Healthcare at Home Best Practices and Future Insights Study!

BerryDunn is conducting the second National Healthcare at Home Best Practices and Future Insights Study, providing agencies with an opportunity to learn what’s working most effectively across the industry. Please participate in this study to help gain insight on home care best practices!

Participating agencies will receive valuable benchmarks to inform strategy and improvement in:

• Technology implementation and adoption

• Workforce strategies

• Operational, clinical, and financial performance

Register here to confirm your participation. You will need to complete a one-hour survey starting in December—you’ll have three months to complete and submit it.

  Committee Updates

Committee Application Deadline Extended to November 10

You have just five days left to apply for the 2026 Committees and Workgroups! The application takes only two minutes to complete. Don’t miss your chance to connect with peers, enhance your skills, and help shape standards across the home care industry.

Click here to view the list of committees and find the one that’s right for you!

 Compliance corner

Regulatory Consultants Helpline Reminder

The Minnesota Home Care Association (MHCA) has consultants to help answer member questions that span the vast array of issues that home health providers face. The MHCA consultants will answer questions to the best of their ability, based on the information that is provided by the member.

Please submit your questions on our website under the “Resources” tab. You will see a link to "submit a consultant question.” We will respond within 48 hours. The MHCA regulatory consultants are part-time and direct emails may be delayed.

  State news

Paid Leave Starts January 1

Is your agency prepared for the new Minnesota Paid Leave?

Paid Leave is a required program that provides payments and job protections to people who need time away from work for their own health or to care for a family member. It is comprised of Medical Leave and Family Leave. Employers and employees will contribute to the program and the state pays employees directly when they utilize that benefit.

The contribution to Paid Leave is .88% for large organizations and .66% for small employers that employ 30 or fewer people and have an average employee wage of less than 150% of the statewide average weekly wage ($1,423). Employees will contribute .44% of the premium, unless organizations are able to cover a portion of that.

The important steps you need to take at this time are included on a checklist:

• Set up a Paid Leave account and set up a Paid Leave administrator on the Minnesota Unemployment Insurance website.

• Contact your payroll company to ensure they are prepared for this new plan.

o Confirm that they will submit reports the state (if they currently submit the UI report, they should be prepared for this).

o Clarify how the premiums will be collected, through your current payroll system or another method.

• Display the official Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) poster in English and in any language spoken by five or more employees before December 1, 2025.

• Prepare and send individual notifications to each employee with the premium breakdown. A sample notification can be accessed from the checklist linked above.

• A Paid Leave calculator is available online.

• Establish and communicate a policy for your organization.

There is a Frequently Asked Questions page online. For additional information, email Paidleave@state.mn.us, available at 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. CST, Monday through Friday (except state holidays) or can be reached at 651-556-7777 or 844-556-0444 (toll-free).

PCA/CFSS Payments May Be Delayed Beginning December

Governor Tim Walz announced on October 29 that he has ordered a third-party audit of billing for 14 high-risk Medicaid services, including Personal Care Assistance/Community First Services and Supports. This means that beginning in December, funding for PCA and CFSS services will be paused for up to 90 days in the interest of detecting suspicious billing activity and scrutinizing the use of public funds. The MHCA will keep members posted on updates.

With funding approved during the 2025 legislative session, the Department of Human Services (DHS) has partnered with Optum to analyze Medicaid fee-for-service claims data and flag potential concerns for DHS review. Optum will identify irregularities such as missing documentation, unusually high billing patterns, or inconsistencies that suggest a claim may not meet program requirements.

The 14 affected Medicaid services identified as high-risk by the Human Services Department based on programmatic vulnerabilities, evidence of fraudulent activity, and data analytics indicating potentially suspicious patterns, claim anomalies, or outliers. The total affected services are as follows: Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention services for autism, Integrated Community Supports, Nonemergency Medical Transportation, Peer Recovery Services, Adult Rehabilitative Mental Health Services, Adult Day Services, Personal Care Assistance/Community First Services and Supports, Recuperative Care, Individualized Home Supports, Adult Companion Services, Night Supervision, Assertive Community Treatment, Intensive Residential Treatment Services, and Housing Stabilization Services.

DHS Requests Public Comments on Disability Waiver Plan Amendments

The DHS announces a period for public comments on amendments to the Community Alternative Care (CAC), Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI), and Developmental Disabilities (DD) waiver plans before they are submitted to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS).

The public comment period began October 23 and will end at 4pm on Friday, November 21. You can submit your comments to DSD.PublicComments@state.mn.us.

More information on the proposed amendments and submitting comments is available here.

  federal news

Final Rule Update and Call to Action

We expect a delay in publishing the Medicare Home Health Final Rule due to the federal shutdown. The Rule is currently at the Office of Management and Budget, its last stop for approval, and industry experts are anticipating that it may be out by mid-November.

A new national poll by Fabrizio Ward found overwhelming opposition across party lines.

• 70% of all voters oppose Medicare cutting home health services by an additional 9% next year.

• 91% of all voters believe it’s important that home health services be available.

• 73% of all voters say that cutting Medicare home health harms patients and legitimate providers while failing to stop fraud.

The proposed payment cut of over $1 billion dollars – 9% to the 30-day payment rate – will force agency closures, create healthcare deserts, and harm our nation’s most vulnerable patients who depend on home health services.

None of the Minnesota Representatives are listed as cosigners of H.R 5142, which calls for pausing these cuts for 2 years, and they need to hear from you! We’ve updated our message in the Advocacy Center so those who have sent a message before can send one again. Please take a couple of minutes to send messages to your representative through our Advocacy Center (linked above) or another avenue you’re familiar with.

  Educational Opportunities

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, October 22, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

Submit your Committee Applications Today!

Apply to be on a 2026 MHCA Committee today! MHCA Committees and Workgroups are valuable opportunities for growth in the home care community, where you can build connections and foster skill development.

Click below to view a list of committees to see if one (or more) is right for you!

Reminder that current committee members must reapply for 2026.

Learn more and apply.

Vicki Gerrits Awarded the William A. Dombi Advocate Award

Congratulations to Vicki Gerrits of TEAM Public Choices on winning our William A.  Dombi Advocate Award! Vicki has been a leading advocate and voice for the home care community for over 30 years. She is not only a powerful advocate but also a trusted and collaborative partner for the entire home care community. We were honored to celebrate Vicki and her amazing career with this award!

December Member Meeting: Ask About Pets! – A Training for Home Care Staff & Organizations

Home care providers have a unique window into their clients' full lives, including the presence of pets who may be essential to patient emotional well-being, safety, routine, and recovery. Given 71% of US households report having at least one pet, and most indicate their pet is family, asking about pets is an important and often overlooked component of whole-person, high-quality care.

Objectives include:

1. Identify three Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) domains for which asking about pets is relevant to quality home-based care.

2. Describe at least three risks to client safety, treatment adherence, or well-being when pet-related needs are overlooked.

3. Identify at least three intake, admission, or care planning points where pet-related questions can be integrated.

4. Learn the best way to write pet policies to protect against animal bites and navigate effective discussions about confining pets during a visit.

View all objectives and register here for free!

  MEMBER CORNER

Newsweek Announces ‘America’s Best Home Health Agencies 2026’

Newsweek and data intelligence firm Statista launched a ranking of “America’s Best Home Health Agencies 2026,” showcasing leading providers in the 25 states with the most home health agencies, as reported by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services. On this list, five MHCA member agencies were recognized for their outstanding work in home health!

The 2025 list features 300 leading providers across the U.S., evaluated using four key data sources: quality metrics, peer recommendations, patient experience and accreditations.

Congratulations to the five MHCA members recognized! They are:

• HealthPartners & Park Nicollet - Lakeview Home Care in Oak Park Heights

• United Hospital District (UHD) Home Health Care in Blue Earth

• CentraCare Home Health & Hospice in Waite Park

• Lifespark Skilled Home Health in St. Louis Park

• Spectrum Community Health – Twin Cities in Inver Grove Heights, now Vitality Healthcare Management in Aitkin

  State news

Billing Available Through HHAeXchange EVV System

Effective September 2025, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) will allow providers to submit claims for unit-based, fee-for-service programs through the  HHAeXchange EVV system. Use of this billing method is optional, and providers may continue using their current billing processes if they prefer not to use  HHAeXchange.

Click here for more information.

Federal Reconciliation Bill (H.R.1) State Updates

The first changes from the Federal Reconciliation Bill have taken affect in October. This bill brought new changes to Medicaid, which include additional requirements for eligibility. This first change affects eligibility for some immigrants.

Please click here for more information.

  federal news

CMS Clarifies Claims Processing During Government Shutdown

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued updated guidance on Medicare claims processing during the federal government shutdown, confirming that claims will continue to be processed and paid on time, except for those tied to expired provisions.

CMS clarified that no payment delays have occurred, as claims are already subject to a mandatory 14-day hold under federal law. While some services —like telehealth-related home health and hospice visits—are impacted by expired waivers, these providers do not bill Medicare for telehealth itself. CMS has not instructed contractors to delay home health or hospice claims beyond the standard hold period. 

Department of Veterans Affairs Releases Contingency Plan

The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) has released its contingency plan detailing how its services and operations will function during the ongoing government shutdown, including guidance specific to home health and hospice providers. Click here for more information.

  Educational Opportunities

On-Demand Opportunities

Click on the logos below for a list of courses offered!

Save the Date

56th Annual Meeting -- October 7-9 2026

Minnesota Home Care Association
P: 651.635.0607  |  F: 651.635.0043  |  www.mnhomecare.org  |  membership@mnhomecare.org

STAY CONNECTED

Mission: MHCA represents and supports Minnesota home care providers committed to high quality home care services.
Vision: MHCA will shape the home care landscape to improve and sustain quality home care services.

Wednesday, October 8, 2025

 Official Publication of Minnesota Home Care Association

  Inside the Informer

  Member News

  MHCA IN ACTION

MHCA 2026 Government Relations Agenda

The MHCA Board of Directors has approved our advocacy priorities for 2026. The agenda is available here.

  MEMBER CORNER

Fill Out Our 2025 Membership Survey!

We invite you to complete our 2025 Membership Survey to share your thoughts on the resources and services we provide. At MHCA, we are dedicated to continually improving how we support home care providers across the state. Your feedback helps us better understand your needs and shape our future initiatives. Thank you for taking the time to share your input!

Fill out the membership survey here.