Free Web-Based Long-Term Care Educational Opportunities: Continuing Education Credit Available
January 19th, 2025 The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing are pleased to announce a collaborative effort to improve long-term care in Texas. This partnership includes updating eight web-based modules delivering best practices education to providers of long-term care in Texas nursing homes. The Long-Term Care modules are: -Infection Prevention and Control. -Reducing Antipsychotic Use in Long-Term Care...Letter To The Providers From Twogether Consulting: January 16th, 2025
January 16th, 2025 From Twogether Consulting! Howdy! Hope everyone is well! Back to the grind for so many of us now that the holidays are over. Please be sure to check the HCS and ICF home pages on the HHSC website for any new changes in rules, regulations, news, provider letters, training opportunities and more. Remember that Employment Readiness Services kick in as of January 1st, 2025 on the IPC for HCS & TxHmL. See IL-2025-01. Twogether Consulting...Fair and Fraud Hearings Handbook Revised
January 15th, 2025 The Fair and Fraud Hearings Handbook updates Section 1240. This revision is effective Jan. 17, 2024. Click this link to see the updates.Letter To Providers From Twogether Consulting-January 7th, 2025
January 7th, 2025 From Twogether Consulting! Happy Holidays! Bon Jour and Happy New Year to all of you. I spent some of my final holiday time in Paris. It was wonderful and I was so glad I got to see some incredible places including the newly renovated Notre Dame Cathedral and eat some amazing food! I am feeling refreshed and am looking forward to coming home soon so I can assist providers with their needs. Twogether Consulting will be officially open to...Promoting Independence Plan: 2024 Report
January 6th, 2024 From HHSC: The Promoting Independence Plan report has been publicly posted in accordance with Executive Order RP-13 and is now available for viewing This plan outlines accomplishments in the last two years as well as key strategies and goals that support people with disabilities to live independently within their communities. Highlights of the 2024 plan include activities to expand and improve services and an overarching theme of collaboration...ISS (Individual Socialized Services) FAQ’s
December 26th, 2024 Individualized Skills and Socialization FAQ’s: Updated Dec 2024 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation updated the Individualized Skills and Socialization frequently asked questions document on December 4, 2024. Read the FAQ here. June 5th, 2023 HHSC’s Response to Three Recent ISS-Related Questions From Providers Question 1: May an Individualized Skills and Socialization (ISS) provider charge families for after-hour care? Many...Reminder: Revalidation Period Extension Through May 31st, 2025
December 20th, 2024 TMHP Email: TMHP sent this email to keep providers up to date regarding a recently published article, which details the recent Provider Revalidation Extension that was granted by the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC). The fully published article can be found here: https://www.tmhp.com/news/2024-12-13-revalidation-due-dates-extended-and-retroactive-enrollment-period-be-implemented. It covers the recently granted revalidation...New Review Process regarding Critical Incident Reports
December 18th, 2024 Guidance Related to the Regional Offsite Review Process for Critical Incidents Reported into CIMS HHSC Long-term Care Regulation published Provider Letter 2024-22, Regional Offsite Review (ROR) Process for Critical Incidents Reported into the Critical Incident Management System (CIMS), for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) providers and a frequently asked questions document. Both documents are available on...Deadline For Stakeholder Comments For Proposed HCS and TxHmL Billing Requirements-Dec. 16th, 2024
December 14th, 2024 Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living stakeholders can now comment on the proposed revisions to the HCS and TxHmL Billing Requirements by 5 p.m. on December 16. The proposed billing requirement revisions and a summary of changes are located on the Long-term Care Providers webpage and are outlined below: HCS HCS Billing Requirements Draft Revision 25-1 HCS Billing Requirements Draft Revision 25-1 Summary of Changes (PDF) TxHmL...HHSC Retraction To Be Posted Concerning: TMHP LMS Knowledge Management Bulletin on Surety Bond
December 13th, 2024 Subject: TMHP LMS Knowledge Management Bulletin HHSC has stated that an email was sent in error and that a retraction notice will be published concerning Surety Bond Requirements. This is not a requirement for HCS providers for those of you asking. Here is what the message sent out stated: “You have been enrolled and must complete KMB OCM 8383761 Surety Bond PDC60 Batch Process Removal 12/13/2024.” Course Instructions: 1....Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC
Employment Assistance & Supported Employment Training Options From HHSC December 10th, 2024 The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is pleased to host a free in-person Employment First / Employment Services training on January 28, 2025, at the Starlight Event Center – Trans Mountain Room, 6650 Continental Drive, El Paso, Texas 79925. Training will be one day in duration and is scheduled for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m, MST. Training topics will cover:...Star Plus Handbook Update
December 5th, 2024 The STAR+PLUS Handbook updates Appendix XXII. This revision is effective Dec. 1, 2024. Click this link to see the updates.Provider Investigations Handbook (PIH) Revised
December 3rd, 2024 The Provider Investigations Handbook (PIH) revision 24-2 updates sections throughout the handbook. This revision is effective Dec. 2, 2024. Does apply to HCS/TxHmL/ICF programs. Click this link to see the updates.“Embracing Change To Enhance Value”-2024 Conference for ICF Surveyors and Providers- Dec. 5th, 2025
December 1st, 2024 Register for the 2024 ICF Conference Webinar The Intermediate Care Facility Conference webinar for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) program staff and providers will be held on Tuesday, Dec. 5. There is one track, so register for each session for the complete educational activity. Welcome to the 2024 ICF Conference: Embracing Change to Enhance Value 8:30–8:45 a.m....Comments on Proposed Rule Changes for HCS & TxHmL Have Ended
November 28th, 2024 The informal comment period for new proposed changes to the rule for HCS & TxHmL (TAC 565 and 566) ended on November 27, 2024: Comment on Proposed & Draft Rules | Texas Health and Human Services. These proposed new and amended rules implement House Bill (HB) 1009 by Turner the 88th Legislature, Regular Session, 2023. HB 1009 imposes a new requirement on a Medicaid provider providing services under a 1915(c) waiver to conduct criminal...The TxHmL Handbook Revision 24-1
November 26th, 2024 The TxHmL Handbook Has Been Revised Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Program handbook revision 24-1 updates Appendix X. This revision became effective Oct. 1, 2024. Click this link to see the updates.Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and Trauma Informed Care (TIC) Conference Online-12/05/24
November 16th, 2024 From HHSC Weekly Digest Bulletin: Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) and Trauma Informed Care (TIC) Conference Online, December 5, 2024 Join us for this online conference on best practices for person-centered care around Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), traumatic stress, and trauma-informed care (TIC) interventions for adults and children with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD). The ACEs-TIC Conference will focus...TMHP: Important Reminder Concerning Client Movement Forms
November 15th, 2024 Submitting HCS and TxHmL Individual Movement Forms Home and Community-Based Services Waiver (HCS) and Texas Home Living Waiver (TxHmL) providers should refrain from submitting the following Individual Movement Forms (IMTs) via the Long-Term Care (LTC) Online Portal: • IMT-Local Authority Reassignment • IMT-Service Coordinator Update These specific purpose codes are designated for LIDDA-use only and should not be submitted by HCS and...Webinars & CBT’s Available For LTC Providers (HCS/TxHmL) on TMHP Learning Management System
November 15th, 2024 Computer-Based Training in the TMHP Learning Management System The following long-term care (LTC)-specific computer-based training (CBT) course is currently available on the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) Learning Management System (LMS): • LTC Online Portal Basics—This interactive CBT provides a basic overview of the LTC Online Portal, including information about creating an administrator account and an overview of the...IPC Revisions to Add ISS/Renewal & IPC Revisions/Enrollment & Transfer IPC’s
November 12th, 2024 Reminder for HCS and TxHmL Providers Entering IPC Revisions to Add Individual Skills and Socialization This is a reminder for Home and Community-based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program providers, and local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs) that are submitting an Individual Plan of Care (IPC) revision to add Individualized Skills and Socialization (ISS) on the IPC plan year. When entering IPC...Assistance With Eligibility Issues Due To The End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage
November 5th, 2024 From the October 28 Ambassador Program call. Presentation slides are also included below and resource links are below. Actions You Can Take Now Visit the Ambassador Toolkit page on the HHS website. Visit the End of Continuous Medicaid Coverage page on the HHS website. If you know someone who could benefit from joining the Ambassador Program, invite them to sign up using this link: Ambassador Program Signup. We Value Your Feedback To help us...Save the Date: Annual Intermediate Care Facility Conference Webinar Dec. 5
October 30th, 2024 The HHSC Joint Training unit will host its annual Intermediate Care Facility Conference webinar, “Embracing Change to Enhance Value,” on Dec. 5. This daylong virtual conference is for providers and survey staff of intermediate care facilities for people with intellectual disabilities or related conditions. Registration for sessions begins Nov. 1. Links will be provided when registration opens.Don’t Forget Annual Vendor Submission Due (Nov.1st-Jan31st) HCS/TxHmL!
October 25th, 2024 HCS and TxHmL Annual Vendor Submission Timeframe The timeframe to submit for annual vendor approval is Nov.1, 2024 through Jan. 31, 2025. Required documentation for annual vendor requests are in the HCS and TxHmL Billing Guidelines, Section 6160(b)(2), Approval of Annual Vendor. Email packet submissions to Billing and Payment with the subject line: Annual Vendor Approval. Submissions sent to any other email addresses may not be received....Time To Vote: Ensure Your Individuals Are Educated and Have The Opportunity To Vote
October 17th, 2024 Please be sure to provide education about voting, if needed as well as opportunities for your individuals to vote. Twogether Consulting recommends checking out the “My Voter Portal” at the Secretary of State’s website before voting to look for your voting location and to ensure an individual is still registered, as the individual may not be registered anymore if they have moved for example. FYI, the voter registration deadline...HHSC Moves News and Information and Provider Letter Content
October 16, 2024 Effective Oct. 16, HHSC moved the News and Information and the Provider Letter content to new locations on the Long-Term Care Regulation (LTCR) Provider webpages. This change to the LTCR Provider webpages was made to improve the visibility of the content and to fix a technical issue that wouldn’t let people use the search feature of the Provider Letter content more than once. News and Information and Provider Letters now have separate links...Annual EVV Policy Training Webinars for CDS Employers
October 13th, 2024 This is a reminder that HHSC will host Electronic Visit Verification training webinars for Consumer Directed Services (CDS) employers required to use EVV. Attending the webinar will complete the annual EVV policy training requirement. Webinar Registration Agendas are included in the registration link. Oct. 31, 2-3:30 P.M. Alternatively, CDS employers can also complete the annual EVV policy training requirement on the HHS Learning Portal. The EVV...Advocacy Resources For Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities
October 13th, 2024 Advocacy Groups:Advocacy, Inc.Best BuddiesCenter for Public Policy PrioritiesDisability Policy ConsortiumThe Arc of TexasThe Arc of San AntonioThe Arc of the United StatesThe Texas Council for Developmental DisabilitiesResources for IDD Providers: Organizations & Associations
October 13th, 2024 National Organizations:American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD)American Network of Community Options & Resources (ANCOR)National Association of Qualified Developmental Disability ProfessionalsNational Parent Network on Disabilities (NPND)The Accreditation Council State Associations:Private Providers Association of Texas (PPAT) Providers Alliance for Community Services of Texas (PACSTX) Southwest Society of...Office of Inspector General (OIG) Recommends Updating ER/Evac Plans
October 12th, 2024 From OIG: Update emergency plans Providers should take stock of emergency preparations, acknowledging that a disaster is best prepared for well ahead of time. In Texas, long-term care facilities, including assisted living, nursing and intermediate care facilities, hospices and group homes, are responsible for maintaining emergency response plans for the residents in their care. To verify that providers comply with federal and state requirements,...Tarrytown Expo Pharmacy Zoom Webinar October 10th, 2024
October 9th, 2024 Tarrytown Expo Pharmacy Zoom Webinar (Complimentary CE Credits) Click here for the printable PDF versionEVV Policy Training Webinars For Program Providers, FMSA’s & CDS Employers: Sept.-Oct. 2024
September 14th, 2024 ** This is especially important for all of you new HCS/TxHmL Providers. Registration Available for HHSC EVV Policy Training Webinars for Program Providers, FMSAs and CDS Employers HHSC is hosting Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) policy training webinars for program providers and financial management services agencies (FMSAs), and Consumer Directed Services (CDS) employers. You will complete the annual EVV policy training requirement by...FREE Positive Behavior Management and Support 2024 (PBMS) Virtual Workshop
September 13th, 2024 The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is offering virtual Positive Behavior Management and Support (PBMS) and Advanced PBMS workshops at no cost for attendees on the following and times: September 23 (PBMS) October 9 (PBMS) October 25 (Advanced PBMS) November 8 (Advanced PBMS) **Please click on a date above to register for that workshop. The workshops are available to the public, including family members, caregivers, providers...STAR+PLUS Transition Member Information: Change In MCO Providers
September 11th, 2024 Effective September 1, HHSC began transitioning contracts for the STAR+PLUS program. This document below provides STAR+PLUS members and providers with resources for assistance with go-live concerns. STAR+PLUS Providers by service area (MCO’s leaving, staying and new) I am a… I need help with… How to get help Member Learning general information about the transition See the HHSC STAR+PLUS webpage Member A complaint about my MCO Contact...TxHmL New Rates: September 1st, 2024
September 10th, 2024 TxHmL New Rates Click on link below: TxHmL Rates: Sept. 1st, 2024- PDF Download The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) approved payment rates for Support Consultation under Community Attendant Services (CAS), the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) waiver program, the Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD) waiver program, Family Care (FC), the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) waiver program,...STATUS OF HCS RATES!
Payment Rates as of September 1st, 2024 HCS Rates Sept. 1, 2024 including ISS Status of HCS Rates as of Jan. 1st, 2023 (includes new ISS rates) HCS Rates Jan. 1st, 2023 including ISS services Status of HCS Rates as of June 3rd 2022 Provider Rate Updates for HCS and TxHmL Providers In early May, HHSC identified missing or incorrect rate keys for some Home and Community-based Services and Texas Home Living providers. On May 11–12, HHSC completed updates to rate...Free Webinar Session “Addressing the Recovery Support Needs of Persons with IDD”
September 3rd, 2024 Upcoming Free Webinar Session “Addressing the Recovery Support Needs of Persons with IDD” Hosted By Austin Integral Care and presented by Jordan Smelley, MHPS Presenter: Jordan Smelley, MHPS I wanted to share this wonderful resource for providers. I just received some awesome information that Austin Integral Care is hosting this webinar for providers and others working with persons with IDD. Jordan...Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute (TCCRI) Published Finalized White Paper On IDD Workforce Shortage & Rates
September 1st, 2024 Texas Conservative Coalition Research Institute (TCCRI) met last spring with 3 IDD provider associations to discuss the IDD workforce shortage crisis and their efforts to secure additional funds to increase the wage rates above the $10.60/hour funded by the 88th Texas Legislature. TCCRI prepared a white paper originally on this topic in 2019 and had great interest in preparing another white paper on this topic. After many months of research,...Time To Care Coalition (TTCC)-Update
September 1st, 2024 The day before the House Human Services Committee hearing (August 27th, 2024 was the hearing date), Time to Care Coalition held a press conference in Houston urging Texas legislators to prioritize support for IDD funding. Avondale House, Center for Pursuit Volunteers of America These 3 programs all spoke about the workforce shortage crisis and the need for additional funds to increase direct care wages. To view the press conference go to: ...Neighborhood LTC Pharmacy Hosting Educational Webinar With Jazz Pharmaceuticals For IDD Providers: September 23rd, 2024
August 31st, 2024 From Our Friends At Neighborhood LTC Pharmacy NRx Upcoming FREE Educational Webinar: Cannabinoid Science 101 “We are hosting an educational webinar with Jazz Pharmaceuticals on September 23rd – you can see the registration page here: https://us06web.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_BsCk1c4fSreeLF4pR64uYg#/registration This webinar is geared towards IDD Providers and care teams. Please feel free to mention/share this opportunity with the...House Human Services Committee Meeting: August 27th, 2024 (Link To Recorded Hearing)
August 30th, 2024 Presentations from August 27th, 2024 House Human Services Committee meeting to receive information on interim charge #3 related to the HCS program and the Interest List. The committee received invited testimony from HHSC and two panels. The first panel was comprised of representatives from the ARC, ADAPT and Disability Rights Texas; the second panel included representatives from the 3 IDD associations. Lastly, ANCOR, the national IDD provider...IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar With HHSC LTCR-July 31st, 2024: Recording Available
August 18th, 2024 The July 31 recording of the Intellectual and Developmental Disability Programs (IDD) and Provider Investigations (PI) quarterly webinar with Long-term Care Regulation (LTCR) is available. Listen to the webinar recording. Read the IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar (PDF). Email LTCR Policy for the transcript.HHSC’s Pre-Recorded Modules: TxHmL Certification Principles
August 18th, 2024 FYI- These training modules are very helpful to new HCS providers and/or HCS provider applicants New TxHmL Certification Principles modules available for Providers HHSC Long Term Care Regulation has posted 4 recorded modules online, covering the new TxHmL Certification Principles for TxHmL Providers. These new principles became effective June 21, 2023. Each module is approximately 40-minutes in length. All current and potential TxHmL Providers...HHSC Info: Comprehensive Guide To Navigating Immunizations
August 16th, 2024 The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) hosts a website that offers immunization information and tools for the general public, health care providers, and local health departments. General public: Provides a user-friendly system for accessing services such as requesting immunization records, finding a vaccine provider, and staying updated on the immunization schedule. Health Care Providers: Provides an overview of DSHS programs,...LIDDA Handbook Has Been Revised
August 15th, 2024 LIDDA Handbook Revision The Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority Handbook (LIDDA) revision 24-2 updates Sections 13000, 15000, 19000, 21000 and 24000, and adds Appendix VI and Appendix VII. This revision is effective Aug. 15, 2024. Click this link to see the updates.Pre-Vocational Services: Proposed Rule Amendments to Implement HB 4169
August 6th, 2024 House Bill (H.B.) 4169 (Price) which was passed by the 88th Legislature directs HHSC to add pre-vocational services as a new benefit to HCS, TxHmL and DBMD. HHSC activities related to Implementation: Following the bill’s passage and Governor’s signature, HHSC consulted with the IDD SRAC Meaningful Skills Development & Employment Services subcommittee on several occasions to not only obtain feedback on implementation of the...PACSTX CONFERENCE: “LAUNCHING FORWARD”-OCT. 1st-3rd, 2024-SAN MARCOS, TX
From our friends at PACSTX! 2024 Annual PACSTX Conference October 1st-3rd Embassy Suites Conference Center San Marcos, Tx Members: $350 | Non-Members: $375 Early bird pricing ends September 1. Group pricing is available. 2024-PACSTX-Topics-Flyer FOR MORE INFORMATION CLICK HERE FOR REGISTRATION HOTEL REGISTRATION This Year’s Topics -New regulations & regulatory enforcement -Strategies for addressing personnel issues unique to our industry -Tech...Medicaid Renewal Due Date: Notice of Extension
July 29th, 2024 A waiver was received from CMS to extend renewals for individuals who receive Medical Assistance Only for Medicaid for the Elderly and People with Disabilities due for renewal in October through December 2024 for 12 months. To clarify this would apply to the individuals who are receiving Medicaid due to a disability (SSDI) or being over 65 years of age, and would include individuals receiving a waiver program or residing in a facility. Their...HHSC Contact List Update: Provider Claims Services (PCS)-Claims Management Division
July 26th, 2024 New PCS Contact In December, Marie Redman, Provider Claims Services, HHSC, retired. Many providers relied on Ms. Redman for assistance with billing and claims issues. Please update your HHSC contact list to change the contact person to Leah Gann (at least for now). Ms. Gann started in February of this year, as the Manager V with PCS in the Claims Management Division. She now holds the position that Marie Redman held prior. She has requested that...City of Austin: Register For Extra Help During A Power Outage If You Have Medical Needs Requiring Electricity
July 25th, 2024 Register Now For Extra Help Before a Power Outage Great resource I just saw from the city of Austin that providers may need for some of their more medically fragile individuals during a power outage with medical equipment requiring power. “Does someone in your household have a critical medical condition that could become life-threatening during a power outage? You may qualify for the City of Austin’s Medically Vulnerable...Correction to “LTC Dashboard Data Export Report Column Names (HCS/TxHmL Providers)
July 24th, 2024 Correction to “LTC Dashboard Data Export Report Column Names” Regarding the Excel Export Reports on the Long-Term Care (LTC) Dashboard: On June 21, 2024, two mislabeled column names were corrected on several LTC Dashboard Data Export Reports: Column O – Previously mislabeled as ‘Medicaid Eligibility End Date’ is now correctly labeled as ‘Last Billed Date;’ and Column P – Previously mislabeled as ‘Last Billed Date’ is now correctly labeled as...EVV Guidance For Providers During Severe Weather
July 23rd, 2024 SEVERE WEATHER POLICY REMINDER In response to the recent severe weather, HHSC is issuing the following guidance for EVV program providers, financial management services agencies (FMSAs) and Consumer Directed Services (CDS) employers. All service delivery for an EVV-required service must be documented in the EVV system. If an EVV clock in and clock out method (home phone landline, mobile, or alternative device) was not available due to the severe...Don’t Forget About ACRES Open Enrollment July 1st-31st, 2024
July 15th, 2024 HHSC announces State Fiscal Year (SFY) 2025 Open Enrollment for the following programs: Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement Program for: Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) – Direct Service Agency (DSA) Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) Texas Home Living (TxHmL) And other appropriate programs For SFY 2025,...Fee Review for Medicaid & Non-Medicaid Reimbursement Rates and Methodologies
July 12th, 2024 Biennial Fee Review for Medicaid & Non-Medicaid Reimbursement Rates and Methodologies Please register for the sessions of importance to you. See below or go to: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about/communications-events/meetings-events/2024/08/08/biennial-fee-review-medicaid-non-medicaid-payment-rates-rate-methodologies-agenda Online Meetings. The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) will conduct stakeholder engagement meetings...“Beyond The Basic Certified Public Accounting Firm”-Presented by LaShonda Dennis of Pegue-Dennis, CPA PC
July 9th, 2024 Thank you so much for those of you who could attend today’s session hosted by Twogether Consulting. I know many of you who registered were unable to attend today. Our thoughts and prayers go out to those of you in Houston and other areas affected by the hurricane and flooding. We have recorded today’s session and will also post it on our “gotostage” channel as well as LinkedIn and FB pages. Click on the link below to...HB 4169 Implementation: Proposed Amendments to HCS, TxHmL & DBMD Waivers
July 1st, 2024 HB 4169 directed HHSC to add pre-vocational services as a service through ISS or add it as a new service/benefit to HCS, TxHmL & DBMD. In conversations with CMS last fall, HHSC was informed that the service had to be a separate service from ISS, hence HHSC is proposing the service as a new benefit. Discussions with CMS, the Meaningful Skills Development and Employment Services subcommittee of the IDD System Redesign Advisory Committee and...Town Hall about HCS enrollment requirements in PEMS: Practice Locations
June 30th, 2024 Town Hall about HCS enrollment requirements in PEMS Home and Community-based Services (HCS) providers must list their practice locations and billing offices in the Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS). Please review the following article which HHSC published on 5/2/2024 for more information: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/hcs-revalidation-notice.pdf To help you add or maintain your practice locations in PEMS,...PEMS: Update On HCS Revalidations For Current Providers
June 28th, 2024 Town Hall about HCS enrollment requirements in PEMS Home and Community-based Services (HCS) providers must list their practice locations and billing offices in the Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS). Please review the following article which HHSC published on 5/2/2024 for more information: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/hcs-revalidation-notice.pdf To help you add or maintain your practice locations in PEMS,...Assistance With Medicaid Renewal & Eligibility Issues
June 7th, 2024 Reposted From February 22, 2024 What Can Providers Do When They Need Assistance With Medicaid Renewal & Eligibility Issues? HHSC is constantly evaluating ways to be more efficient and improve the quality of the application review process, it was suggested that in addition to referring cases to Ms. Perez’s office (Gracie Perez, Access & Eligibility Services) at HHSC, providers needing emergency assistance are urged to contact the...Medicaid Eligibility Issue: Individual Assigned Wrong Medicaid Type Code (HCS/TxHmL)
June 7th, 2024 Individual Assigned Wrong Medicaid Type Code During The Renewal/Reinstatement Process it has been brought to my attention that some of Individuals in our IDD waiver programs have sometimes been renewed/reinstated with the wrong type code for Medicaid, which then takes them out of the HCS or TxHmL waiver. This also means the provider can’t bill. For many of our individuals, R14 or 14 is the appropriate code for “waiver”....Reminder Providers Must Sign Up For Blackboard Connect Emergency System (HCS, TxHmL, ICF, & DAHS-ISS Providers)
June 4th, 2024 BLACKBOARD CONNECT EMERGENCY SYSTEM Just as a reminder, this is not a voluntary process! All providers must appoint a designee to enroll in the system. That designee is responsible for communication and responses to requests through this system. Be sure to also note any other designees or back-up designee for the Blackboard Connect Emergency System! This system will be used to send emergency and outreach notifications through email, phone, voice...HHSC Transitioning STAR+PLUS Program Contracts: Please Register For Very Important Webinar
May 30th, 2024 HHSC is transitioning contracts for the STAR+PLUS program as of September 1st, 2024 Providers be aware that members may need to select new health plans. · Providers may need to contract with new MCOs. The STAR+PLUS Project Team invites providers to attend an upcoming webinar to learn about changes to the STAR+PLUS program. This information will be helpful to providers in communicating with STAR+PLUS members and engaging with managed care...Presentation Hosted By AAIDD: Autism CARES Act
May 28th, 2024 Presentation On The Extension of The Autism CARES Act Hosted by AAIDD Presenters: – Cindy Smith, Director of Public Policy, AUCD – Kim Musheno, Executive Vice President of Public Policy, ASA The Autism CARES Act provides research, education, training, and services for individuals with autism and other developmental disabilities. It must be reauthorized before it expires in September 2024. In this webinar, you will learn more about this...Branding Guidelines and Waiver Program Handbook and Form Updates
May 22nd, 2024 Home and Community-based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living (TxHmL), Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS), and Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD) waiver programs will be replacing the form and handbook term “individual” with “person” in accordance with HHS branding guidelines. HHS follows federal plain language guidance to help ensure all programs use language that makes communications easier for the public to read,...Notice: HHSC Hearing June 4th, 2024
May 20th, 2024 HEARING NOTICE: Tuesday, June 4th at 9:00 a.m. in Room E2.030, Capitol Complex. Evaluate the appropriate role of the state in overseeing Medicaid managed care. Electronic public comment will be available for: -Health and Human Services Commission Medicaid and CHIP procurements -Medicaid managed care quality metrics -Models for state Medicaid and CHIP contracting The intention of this hearing is for the the committee to be educated on the current...TMHP Communication Request: Confirm Your E-mail Address With PEMS!
May 18th, 2024 TMHP is currently in the process of reaching out to providers and informing them of the need to confirm their email address in the Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS). Please help by sharing this information with other HCS/TxHmL/ICF providers. Having a valid email on file with TMHP will ensure any communications sent out will go to the appropriate person or entity that would need to be made aware. Providers lacking a valid email address...Direct Care Professional Study: You Can Help By Encouraging Your DCP Staff To Take This Survey!
May 13th, 2024 Twogether Consulting would really appreciate if providers could share this with their direct staff. Our good friend and colleague, Sergio Castillo from Life Choices Unlimited, needs your help with his doctoral project concerning Direct Care Professionals in our industry. Please read below and the link for the survey is also included. “Dear Provider of Services to People with IDD, Direct Care Professional/Staff or IDD Service...January 31st IDD and PI Webinar with HHSC LTCR
May 13th, 2024 IDD & PI Webinar April 30th , 2024 The April 30 recording of the Intellectual and Developmental Disability Programs (IDD) and Provider Investigations (PI) Quarterly Webinar with Long-term Care Regulation (LTCR) is available. Listen to the webinar recording. Read the IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar (PDF). Email LTCR Policy for the transcript. January 5, 2024 IDD & PI Webinar January 31st, 2024 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation hosted a...Medicaid Enrollment Revalidation Process for HCS Program Providers: Update
May 2nd, 2024 On Feb. 13, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) posted a notice for HCS program providers about completing Medicaid enrollment revalidation. HHSC is providing an update to this previous notification. Effective for all Medicaid enrollment revalidations due on or after June 1, HCS program providers must disclose and maintain all practice locations in the Provider Enrollment Management System (PEMS). The Update on Medicaid Enrollment...Dyslexia Handbook 2024: Procedures for Education
April 29th, 2024 Dyslexia Handbook 2024 For Special Education Discusses procedures for educating individuals with Dyslexia and related conditions Click on the link below for a copy of the handbook. https://tea.texas.gov/academics/special-student-populations/special-education/2nd-reading-2024-texas-dyslexia-handbook-2024.pdfTED (Transition & Employment Designee) Guidelines For Students With Disabilities In Special Education Programs
April 29th, 2024 Overview of the Transition & Employment Designee (TED) What is a TED? The TED is an employee in a district or charter school who is designated as the primary contact for transition and employment services for students with disabilities in special education programs. This role is required by Texas Education Code (TEC) §29.011(b). This employee must be able to provide information and resources about effective transition planning and employment...AAIDD Annual Conference – Hotel and Registration Reminders!
April 30th, 2024 Book Hotel Room Today Register For AAIDD National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky (June 10th-12th, 2024) Earlybird Registration Ends May 2nd, 2024 RegistrationParents Guide To The ARD (Admission, Review, Dismissal) Process Video: Now Available in ASL
April 30th, 2024 https://www.spedtex.org/parents-guide-ard-process-asl-video-series This is an American Sign Language (ASL) version of the Parent’s Guide to the Admission, Review, and Dismissal (ARD) Process. Click the previous or next arrow under the video or select a section from the playlist below. Parent’s Guide to the ARD Process Playlist Click the link below to download this resource. Select Language ARD Guide English ARD Guide Spanish ARD Guide Arabic...2024 IDD Group Home Provider Report: Direct Support Workforce Crisis
April 24th, 2024 2024 IDD Group Home Provider Report Above you will find the updated provider survey report conducted by the 3 IDD associations to encompass system experience subsequent to the implementation of rate increases for direct care workers that became effective September 1, 2023. This report was sent to the HHSC Executive Commissioner on April 23rd, 2024, and covers providers’ experiences and challenges in delivering quality services amid the...“Lookup Tool” Unnecessary For HCS/TxHmL Cost Reporting Accountability Report
Reminder: April 14th, 2024- in case you missed this in March March 11th, 2024 According to HHSC, “the process outlined below and implemented by TMHP should make the lookup tool unnecessary for cost reporting.” TMHP created a claims data export process to allow HCS/TxHmL providers to access units of service information to support cost reporting. This hopefully will make the UOS lookup tool unnecessary. Texas Med Connect (TMC) users can request the...West Texas Summit Highlights Funding Challenges For IDD Community
April 14th, 2024 Permiacare and Spectrum of Solutions hosted the West Texas IDD Summit. See comments from Spectrum of Solutions and Permiacare representatives discussing the dire state of funding for individuals with IDD in current Medicaid programs, specifically funding to pay our direct support workers. Thank you for all you do Spectrum of Solutions and Permiacare for individuals with IDD in the community! Please click on this video from local ABC News...Watch Free IDD Webinar From TMP: “Mastering Inflation- How leveraging IDD-specific tools can save your provider agency.
April 14th, 2024 “Mastering Inflation” How leveraging IDD-specific tools can save your provider agency. Please check on this wonderful free webinar with this presentation by TMP (TaskMaster Pro) at the recent ANCOR conference and how their technology can help you. IDD Webinar – Mastering Inflation IDD Webinar – Mastering...Potential Threats: New LIDDA Requirement
April 12th, 2024 Potential Threats to Health and Safety (new). (SOW, 2.6.4.). The contract includes a new provision requiring the Authority to respond and immediately take action, as identified in correspondence from HHSC, related to Notifications of Potential Threats to Health and Safety. The procedure and actions taken must ensure the individual is seen in person within 48 hours. ***Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) Intellectual and Developmental...KERA News Article: Making Life-Or-Death Decisions For $10.60 An Hour
April 5th, 2024 Please see the article below which was published a few days ago, regarding the impact of the $10.60/hour direct care wage funded by the 88th Texas Legislature. The article provides an excellent description of an IDD provider system under mounting stress due to inadequate funds to combat the relentless workforce shortage. Note that while the article does not mention the 3 IDD associations by name, it does reference their collective efforts to...New MCO’s & New MCO Locations
March 14th, 2024 MCOs Awarded Contracts by STAR+PLUS Service Areas: See the end of this communication for the MCOs awarded a contract and the service areas they will cover. Please note that not only will there will be 3 new MCOs (highlighted in yellow), but also that the service areas for some of the current MCOs are changing. Notices to Individuals regarding the Change: According to HHSC letters were sent to STAR+PLUS members (individuals who receive their...Local Authority Contract Change: Potential Threats to Health and Safety
March 12th, 2024 Local Authority Contract Change: Potential Threats to Health and Safety (new). (SOW, 2.6.4.). The contract includes a new provision requiring the Authority to respond and immediately take action, as identified in correspondence from HHSC, related to Notifications of Potential Threats to Health and Safety. The procedure and actions taken must ensure the individual is seen in person within 48 hours. LIDDAs have requested clearer direction from HHSC...Resource Sheet: Person-Centered Language From IntellectAbility
March 8th, 2024 Our friends at IntellectAbility created this wonderful tool which I think Service Coordinators, Case Managers and QIDPs will really find helpful when developing their plans for individuals in their programs. These include Person-Directed Plans, Implementation Plans, and Individual Program Plans. Please Click this link, Person-Centered Language: Resource Sheet to learn more about this tool from Intellectability For more about Person-Centered...New Reporting Process for ANE Reporting & Investigations for ICF/IID Program
February 28th, 2024 HHSC has begun to send out new ANE Reporting Procedure Posters to ICF providers this week. If you do not get one, please contact Even if you have not received your ANE posters, please go ahead and make your posting of the new phone # for reporting allegations of Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation in the group homes and other appropriate places for your staff and individuals in your program. Please inform all staff, volunteers,...HHSC IDD Operations Portal For Providers-2024 Update
February 23rd, 2024 Packet/Documentation Submission Details The most efficient mode of submission for HCS/TxHmL documentation is through the IDD Operations Portal. To learn how to register and use the IDD Operations Portal or for answers to any questions, please visit https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/resources/idd-ops-portal or email IDD_Ops_Portal@hhsc.state.tx.us. Packets may also be submitted via fax at 512-438-4249. Questions: For...Links to Long-Term Care Bulletins
See links to 2024 editions below: February 2023 LTC Provider Bulletin No. 97 See links to the 2023 editions below: May 2023 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin February 2023 LTC Bulletin No. 93 (456.32 KB) Visit the TMHP LTC homepage regularly for news, reminders, training opportunities and other important program updates. For questions, see the LTC Provider Resources Guide. See links to the 2022 editions below: November 2022 Long-Term Care...Friendly Reminder To HCS/TxHmL Providers: Providing Full Array of Services
February 18th, 2024 IDD Services and PASRR want to remind local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs) that Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) program providers are required to provide, or obtain as needed and without delay, the array of services in the respective programs in accordance with Texas Administrative Code (TAC), specifically 26 TAC §565.11(a)(3) for HCS and 26 TAC §566.7(d)(1) for TxHmL....Public Hearing Webcast & Presentation on Feb. 15th, 2024 (HCS/TxHmL/DBMD) Pre-Vocational & Similar Services
February 10th, 2024 Public Hearing Notice – Home and Community-based Services, Texas Home Living, and Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities Medicaid Waiver Programs Public hearing will be held on: February 15, 2024 – 2:30 pm Texas Department of State Health Services, Moreton Building Room M-100, First Floor 1100 West 49th Street, Austin, Texas 78756 Webcasting Available This public hearing will be webcast. Members of the public may attend the public...Information Letter On New Application Process for HCS, coming soon
January 20th, 2024 Information Letter (IL) re: Changes to the Application Process Coming Soon: HHSC indicated on January 9th that the IL would soon be posted, but HHSC/TMHP are still working on the IL.Beware of Suspicious Email To DAHS ISS Only Providers
January 26th, 2024 We have received information that a suspicious email claiming to be from HHSC asking providers to verify information related to their DAHS ISS Only licenses has been received by some ISS providers. The email was not sent from an HHSC email address but instead from a mndschool.org domain. The email directs the provider to click on a link to verify information and that the provider has 24 hours to verify or they will revoke the license....ICF Webinar-Reporting Abuse, Neglect, Exploitation and Incidents
January 20th, 2024 Reporting Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Changes and Self-Reporting Incidents for Intermediate Care Facilities Tuesday, Feb. 27 10–11:30 a.m. Register here for webinar.Entering IPC Revisions to Add Individual Skills and Socialization
January 20th, 2024 Reminder for HCS and TxHmL Providers Concerning ISS on IPC’s HCS & TxHmL program providers, and LIDDA authorities who are submitting an Individual Plan of Care (IPC) revision to add Individualized Skills and Socialization (ISS) on the IPC plan year. When entering IPC revisions, if you update the effective date in field 12a, you must click the search icon located next to the date field. This will allow the individual’s data to refresh...MillinPro Billing Software: Helping Texas IDD Providers Become More Efficient
January 18th, 2024 The Texas IDD billing process through TMHP has been burdening providers since its inception. HCS, TxHmL and ICF providers have been plagued with denied claims, decreased revenue, and inefficiencies in tracking and reporting. In this video below (Hosted by Twogether Consulting 1/18/24), Millin addresses a range of best-practice topics to help you stay on top of your Texas HCS, TxHmL and ICF billing. They share the functionality they have built...TMHP Portal Town Hall Webinars And FAQ’s
HCS and TxHmL Town Hall Webinars and FAQs January 16th, 2024 November Webinar 2023 Recordings from November Townhall November 2023 – TMHP LTC Town Hall for HCS/TxHmL Providers and FMSAs Webinar (PDF) November 2023 – TMHP LTC Town Hall for HCS/TxHmL Providers and FMSAs Webinar Recording Standing Meeting Agenda Training and Information Sharing — provide relevant training and updates. November topics include: Appendix A Scenario Using “Submit Form” on IPC...HCS & TxHmL Webinars & FAQ’s (Recordings)
For Previously Recorded Webinars & FAQ’s https://hhs.texas.gov/doing-business-hhs/provider-portals/long-term-care-providers/resources/hcs-txhml-webinars-faqs January 16th, 2024 Past TMHP Town Hall & TxHmL/HCS Provider webinars- recordings from July-December 2023 December Webinar 2023 December 2023 – Individualized Skills and Socialization Training for HCS/TxHmL Providers and LIDDAs Webinar (PDF) December 2023 – Individualized Skills and...Provider Revalidations: Important Information
January 15th, 2024 Revalidations: Important Updates When completing revalidations for HCS, providers must list all non-family operated HH locations and 3/4 bed HCS group home locations as practice locations. It would appear that TMHP is just realizing this and is contacting providers whose applications are in some stage of approval. HHSC stated that if a provider has already completed the process (and been approved) and did not include non-family operated HH and...Final Extension for Providers With Revalidation
January 15th, 2024 HHSC has issued one final extension for Providers with revalidation dates from May 12, 2023, until November 11, 2023, granting these providers an additional 6 months from their revalidation date to submit the request. Please be sure to check the Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS) for your current revalidation date. Update to Article “Provider Enrollment Revalidation Extensions to End” After the November 11th date,...Long-Term Care Facilities Council
January 14th, 2024 Would You Like To Be A Member of The Long-Term Care Facilities Council? Now is your chance. I would encourage providers of these services to think about being a part of the council. From HHSC: “If you’re interested in issues regarding a consistent survey and informal dispute resolution process for long-term care facilities, Medicaid quality-based payment systems for those facilities and the allocation of Medicaid beds in those facilities,...PEMS Instructional Site
January 13th, 2024 TMHP now has a Provider Enrollment Instructional Site which provides written instructions for what is required when completing any type of enrollment request including a revalidation request PEMS Instructional Site PEMS Instructional SiteRevalidation Tools For Providers
January 13th, 2024 Revalidation Training Links to YouTube video: Revalidating An Organizational NPI Revalidating a Performing Provider TMHP also has a Provider Enrollment Instructional Site which provides written instructions for what is required when completing any type of enrollment request including a revalidation request. PEMS Instructional Site PEMS Instructional Site TMHP has also put together an Enrollment Revalidation Quick Reference Guide (QRG) that goes...Webinar Recording: ISS Training for HCS/TxHmL Providers and LIDDAs-12-11-23
January 7th, 2024 A recording of the Dec. 11 Individualized Skills and Socialization Training for HCS/TxHmL Providers and LIDDAs webinar is now available. The webinar recording and presentation slides have been posted on the HCS and TxHmL Webinars & FAQs web page.Upcoming Events
Jan
28
Wed
10:00 am
Webinar: “ISS TAC Changes-Update...
@ Webinar
Webinar: “ISS TAC Changes-Update...
@ Webinar
Jan 28 @ 10:00 am – 12:00 pm
WEBINAR: “ISS TAC Changes-Updates, Clarifications & Survey Expectations” “QUICK PAY” REGISTRATION Date: January 28th, 2026 [...]