Last week Minnesota HomeCare association (MHCA) received clarification from the Minnesota Department of Health and Human Services (DHS) regarding the changes to Prepaid Medical Assistance Program (PMAP) and MinnesotaCare coverage throughout the state, beginning January 1, 2016.

To ensure a smooth transition, DHS confirmed that there will be 120 day window starting January 1, to transitions clients to another plan within their network. DHS suggests that providers consider contracting with additional plans depending on which plans are "in-network" for their clients.

It is important to note that DHS did reiterate that Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO), Minnesota SeniorCare Plus (MSC+) and Special Needs BasicCare (SNBC) coverage will not be affected.

DHS plans to provide additional information within the coming weeks. Until then providers are encouraged to watch their provider announcements and contact the DHS help desk with additional questions at: 1-855-366-7873 Monday through Friday from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

MHCA will continue to follow this story and release information to our members as it becomes available.

Click here to review a state map of who will provide coverage in which county.

Note: On Friday, UCare announced it was dropping its lawsuit that sought to restore them as an option in the state's public health insurance program.  UCare will continue to sell insurance policies to Medicare beneficiaries and clients buying through the MNsure exchange., however its primary focus will be on Medicare. UCare will also continue to work with individuals and the families portion of MinnesotaCare and Medical Assistance in Olmsted County.

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