Twogether Updates

April 9th, 2026 Immediate Care Facility (ICF) Joint Training webinars: Reporting Abuse, Neglect, and Exploitation Changes and Self-Reporting Incidents (ICF) Wednesday, April 8 1–2:30 p.m. Register here for the webinar. Internal Investigations by Providers for Intermediate Care Facilities Thursday, April 9 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Register here for the webinar. ICF Foundations Wednesday, April 22 10–11:30 a.m. Register here for the webinar. Plan of Removal (POR) During Immediate Jeopardy (IJ)...

April 1st, 2026 From Twogether Consulting Hello Everyone!   Happy April Fool's Day! Passover begins today, and Easter is this weekend, so it is an eventful start to the new month.  Wishing all IDD providers and their individuals happy and safe holidays Just a few reminders: Do not forget that STAIRS historical information for cost reporting will not be available anymore after April 30th, 2026.  Please don't wait til the last minute to download your reports or information for 2025. ...

April 9th, 2026 If you missed today's ISS webinar reviewing the TAC updates from new and revised ISS rules from February 2026 that go into effect May 1st, 2026, please see links below: In addition, FAQ's and recording will most likely be available later.  Check HHSC's ISS Home page TAC Updates Training Handout Scope & Severity Grid- ISS Administrative Penalties March 30th, 2026 NEW RULES FOR ISS:  ENFORCEMENT DATE- MAY 1st, 2026 New Rules came out today March 30th, 2026.  Click on link...

March 26th, 2026 Change to HHSC cost reporting system, from STAIRS to STEPS! HHSC will be retiring the STAIRS system as part of the transition to the new cost reporting system, State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), beginning with cost reports collected in 2026. Important deadline: The final date to access and download historical cost reports from STAIRS is April 30, 2026, at 5 p.m. After this date, providers will no longer be able to access STAIRS to retrieve prior-year cost...

March 24th, 2026 HHSC is pleased to host free in-person Employment First/Employment Services trainings across the state of Texas from March to November 2026.   What: Employment First/Employment Services Training Where: Fort Worth, Dallas, Houston, Corpus Christi, San Antonio, San Angelo, Beaumont, El Paso, Longview, and Lubbock When: Various dates from March to November 2026 Time: 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. CST Register: Select your session and register now. Space is limited to 50 seats per event, so...

March 23rd, 2026 Please look for these April classes to be posted this week:  (These classes will be posted on the website by March 23rd, 2026) Webinar:  “Development Of The Comprehensive Nursing Assessment & NSP” (HCS/TxHmL) –April 13th, 2026  (10 am- 12:30 pm) Webinar: “Nursing Documentation & Billable Services” (HCS/TxHmL) –April 17th, 2026 (1pm-3:30pm) Live Training:  “Admissions & Post Admission Follow-Up: Best Practices” – April 30th & 31st, 2026    Location:  Austin,...

Joint Training Page Available for HCS/TxHmL/ICF/ISS Providers The HCS and TxHmL programs now have a Joint Training Opportunities page where providers can register for upcoming classes. Class size will be limited to maximize participation, but classes will be offered regularly. Providers should check the page often for updates. There will be recordings of special presentations available for viewing on-demand later. Joint Provider On-Line Training Opportunities 2026 Joint training opportunities...

March 20th, 2026 Long-Term Care The Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) is working to resolve an issue affecting some newly issued long-term care (LTC) Texas Medicaid IDs that begin with “9.” Read the full alert for LTC. Prior Authorization and Acute Care TMHP is aware that some newly issued Texas Medicaid patient control numbers (PCNs) appear as ineligible in certain TMHP systems for Prior Authorization and Acute Care claims submissions. Providers that have a client who has a...

March 20th, 2026 The Texas Health and Human Services Commission and the University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing has a wonderful 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 Facilities. -Culture Change for...

March 20th, 2026 Just a friendly reminder.... On February 20, 2026, the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) released enhancements to the Long-Term Care Online Portal (LTCOP) to streamline the Revision Individual Plan of Care (IPC) process for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) programs. For more information, see the full posting at TMHP.com Now Effective: Enhancements to LTCOP HCS and TxHmL IPC Revision Submissions | TMHP

March 18th, 2026 Save the date for a free webinar on Wednesday, April 29, for Autism Awareness Month. What: Webinar on Helping Learners Prepare for the Workforce When: Wednesday, April 29, 2026, 12 to 1:30 p.m. CST Registration: Registration opens later in March. About the Webinar The HHSC Children’s Autism Program is hosting this webinar for Autism Awareness Month. The webinar is presented by Dr. Dorothea Lerman PhD, BCBA-D, LBA-Tx, Director of the University of Houston Clear Lake (UHCL)...

March 17th, 2026 The CLASS Handbook Has Been Revised The Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS) Manual, revision 26-1, updates Appendix V. This revision is effective March 16, 2026. Review the updates linked here.

March 17th, 2026 The TxHML Handbook Has Been Revised The Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Program Handbook, revision 26-2, updates Appendix VII. This revision is effective March 16, 2026. Review the updates linked here. 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.

March 17th, 2026 The HCS Handbook Has Been Revised The Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Handbook, revision 26-2, updates Appendix X. This revision is effective March 16, 2026. Review the updates linked here. May 4th, 2025 The HCS Handbook Has Been Revised The Home and Community-based Services (HCS),  Handbook revision 25-1, updates Section 11000. 11000, Maintaining Medicaid Eligibility Financial Eligibility Guidelines for Texas Home Living and Home and Community-based Services This...

March 16th, 2026 Update to HHSC Electronic Visit Verification Weblink HHSC EVV homepage is being updated and will be available at a new weblink. The previous link will automatically redirect users to the new web address: New EVV weblink: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/long-term-care-providers/long-term-care-provider-resources/electronic-visit-verification-evv Old EVV...

March 14th, 2026  CIMS:  A new vendor has been procured - Deloitte.  The transition to current vendor will take 6 months with target date for completion August 1, 2026. HHSC will conduct webinars and ad hoc meetings and publish bulletins and Information Letters to prepare providers for the transition between now and August 1, 2026.

March 13th, 2026 Employment Readiness Service HHSC has indicated that one must first exhaust all TWC services before accessing Employment Readiness.  This has been challenged by IDD Coordination & SRAC Workgroup members during a recent meeting, noting that providers are experiencing enough challenges, particularly concerning the inadequate reimbursement rate, in being able to offer this service without having to first exhaust TWC services for which there is no comparable parallel.  HHSC...

March 13th, 2026 Employment First Initiatives Webinar Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is committed to Employment First, the philosophy that employment in the general workforce should be the first and preferred option for people with disabilities. Simply put, real jobs, real wages, earning minimum wage or better. This Employment First principle includes several initiatives, such as statewide employment services training and proof-of-concept projects. You’re invited to a free...

March 13th, 2026 Historical Information: The Sunset Advisory Commission was established by the Texas Legislature in 1977 to improve government efficiency, effectiveness, and accountability. It serves as a periodic review mechanism to evaluate the continued need for state agencies and, when necessary, to reform or abolish agencies that are outdated, redundant, or inefficient. The Sunset Advisory Commission is named after the "sunset" clause in legislation, which sets an automatic expiration or...

March 13th, 2026 Update Concerning ICAP Scoring Software (CompuScore) & Manual HHSC planned to post an Information Letter detailing changes to the ICAP, how to access the information, including the CompuScore software, and related information.  Apparently, the posting of the letter is still planned, but will be a bit delayed, as HHSC is waiting for the University of Minnesota to post the manual on its webpage before sending to Texas providers.  Like the software, the manual will be...

March 12th, 2026 CIMS:  Revised Provider Letter: HHSC LTCR Publishes Revised Regional Offsite Review Process for Critical Incidents Reported into the Critical Incident Management System for Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Providers. LTCR has revised Provider Letter 2024-22 which includes a new records request checklist for the critical incident management system. This records request list will assist the provider in determining the appropriate...

March 12th, 2026 Concerning IL 2026-01:     HHSC has said that at this time, there is no intent to require documentation by the provider that the individual or guardian is informed every time telehealth is used, that:  All persons who use, receive or deliver telehealth services must inform the individual receiving the service that "The individual may stop the service or turn off the audio-visual equipment at any point during a session." Nor is it required that authorization is received every...

March 11th, 2026 Updated User Guides and Videos for HCS/TxHmL: Updated User Guides and Videos for HCS and TxHmL Waiver Programs Now Available | TMHP Jun 1st, 2022 Here is the TMHP page that you can check for updates on fixes, errors discovered and other updates on TMHP issues in HCS. Not sure everything will be sent in provider alerts on our normal Sunday emails we get from HHSC.  Sounds like they won't, so check periodically....

March 10th, 2026 Stakeholder feedback and input wanted.  Providers if you have not completed this survey yet, we urge you to do so!  The deadline is March 20th, 2026, so you still have time. HHSC is undergoing review by the Sunset Commission, which will determine if the agency should be abolished or remain in operation, but with changes. Determination will be made by the 90th Texas Legislature. Please click on the link below to participate in the survey . Health and Human Services Commission...

March 8th, 2026 Effective April 1st, 2026, New Organizational Realignment for HHSC Possibly these changes were made in anticipation of the outcome of the Sunset Advisory Commission's report on HHSC or feedback received from both staff and stakeholders or a combination of both. Additional changes could be made as the result of the HHSC Sunset bill that will be deliberated and passed by the 90th Texas Legislature. The chart notes that some previous "Divisions" have been split into separate...

March 12th, 2026 TMHP has asked the provider associations to make sure providers are in the loop when it comes to changes related to Medicaid, and other state healthcare programs, so Twogether Consulting is trying to help spread the word! Below is a selection of articles that have been posted to tmhp.com that they think contain useful information. TMHP believes it is best practice to consistently check www.tmhp.com for the most TMHP-related policy and procedure updates, and if you have any...

March 3rd, 2026 From HHSC Alert  March 2nd, 2026: Multiple Cost Reports Now Open in the State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS) HHSC has transitioned to a new web-based software application, State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), to collect information from providers for Medicaid and non-Medicaid cost reports, Supplemental and Directed Payment Program (DPP) enrollments, and legislatively directed reports. HHSC is implementing a phased release plan for the DPP enrollments,...

February 16th, 2026 Interest List Slot Release #'s by HHSC  These are only numbers for HCS & TxHmL.  Accurate numbers for DBMD, CLASS, DCP and Star+Waiver will be released at a later date in communications to providers. HCS:  For the remainder of this fiscal year 105 slots (15/month) will be released. This means many LIDDAS will receive no slots while some may receive only 1 or 2 and some may receive 5 or 6. The above slot release figure was based on current data for the number of people...

February 15th, 2026 Medicaid Eligibility Escalation Routes: Here is a contact list dated January 30, 2026 for assistance with Medicaid Eligibility Issues that need escalation. Please click on this document with 3 separate contacts per region for initiating resolution to Medicaid Eligibility-related matters. Please use these before contacting Rachel Patton, HHSC (Rachel.Patton@hhs.texas.gov).  You may also call your provider association for further help: (PPAT, PACSTX...) In using these...

February 14th, 2026 The Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS) Provider Manual Revision 26-1 aligns Health and Human Services Commission policy related to its Office of Inspector General. This revision is effective Feb. 10, 2026. Review the updates linked here. The changes specifically relate to "Fraud Referral".  OIG will be ramping up their investigations of possible fraud as some of you may know.  These changes align policy with Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) policy related to...

February 13th, 2026 Coming Soon! On February 20, 2026, the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) will update the Long-Term Care Online Portal (LTCOP) to streamline the Revision Individual Plan of Care (IPC) process for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) programs. This enhancement combines Revision IPC forms with Individual Movement Tracking (IMT)-Individual Update forms in some scenarios, enabling users to submit required updates through a...

February 3rd, 2026 Joint Provider On-Line Training Opportunities 2026 Joint training opportunities are now offered on the new portal that HHSC has developed. This portal offers online training opportunities (videos) and an easy way to track training that providers have taken. "Learning Tree Portal"  To register to use the portal, please go to this link See "Learning Tree Portal FAQ's" for more information To see a video about the new portal, please click on this link HHSC will continue to...

Cost Report/Accountability Reports   February 2nd, 2026 State Fiscal Year 2025 Cost Report Training Information From HHSC HHSC announces the publication of Information Letter (IL) 2026-02 regarding the state fiscal year 2025 Cost Report trainings for Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS) Medicaid and Non-Medicaid cost reports. With the transition to the State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), HHSC is transitioning from hosting webinars to providing new web-based cost report...

February 2nd, 2026 FEBRUARY SCHEDULE  If you register for a class and can’t attend, please cancel your registration as soon as possible. HCS/TXHML  Register here for any of the following Home and Community Support Services Agencies Joint Training Opportunities. Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction for HCS and TxHmL Providers Tuesday, Feb. 24 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Arlington, TX Writing Acceptable Plans of Correction for HCS and TxHmL Providers Thursday, Feb. 26 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Midland,...

February 1st, 2026 The February 2026 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin has been published on the LTC homepage on TMHP.com. Visit the TMHP LTC homepage regularly for news, reminders, training opportunities, and other important program updates. For questions, see the Provider Resources section of the bulletin. November 10th, 2025 The November 2025 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin has been published on the LTC homepage on TMHP.com. Visit the TMHP LTC homepage regularly for news,...

January 30th, 2026 As of January 29th, 2026, I received clarification from HCS/TxHmL policy that the HCS provider no longer has to specifically provide the SC with a copy of the on-site inspection results within 5 days of inspection, according to Ch 565 TAC.  This does apply to both RSS/SL (Group Homes) and HH/CC homes on-site inspections.  Basically, my understanding is that there is no timeline, other than upon request. So you must maintain the inspection report or completed form in the...

January 26th, 2027 During the HCS/TxHmL PI Quarterly Webinar with LTCR on January 26th, 2027 the following clarification was made concerning Assessment For Risk For Restraints: Only pertains to HCS this rule 565.33 (a) in which all individuals should have an assessment for risk for restraints completed initially within 30 days of receiving services, with the physician's involvement, and annually and revised, if necessary, thereafter updated by the physician, RN or LVN. TxHmL does not require...

January 22nd, 2026 HHSC LTCR Publishes Provider Letter 2026-02 Recommendations for Tuberculosis (TB) Screening LTCR has published PL 2026-02 regarding recommendations for tuberculosis (TB) screening. This provider letter provides guidance to Assisted Living Facility (ALF), Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS), DAHS with Individualized Skills and Socialization, and DAHS with Individualized Skills and Socialization Only facilities. This means this applies to the Licensed ISS program that our...

January 23rd, 2026 Program providers and other interested stakeholders can now register for the upcoming HCS and TxHmL quarterly webinar. HCS and TxHmL Quarterly Webinar HHSC will be providing ongoing opportunities for HCS and TxHmL providers and FMSAs to hear about recent program updates. February 18, 2026 10 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. Topics discussed will include: HCS/ TxHmL - 9/1/2025 Rate Change and IPC updates UR– Reductions and Denials, LON Increase Process PES – ICAP Scoring and Updates –...

January 25th, 2026 As we are in the midst of extreme winter weather across the state, and we may be in for some more of the same right behind this freeze, please see the information from HHSC below: Long-Term Care Facility Winter and Extreme Freezing Weather Preparedness HHSC reminds long-term care facilities and agencies to review and update emergency plans for freezing temperatures and snow. Emergency plans for extreme weather should include the provider’s plan to address: Power loss. Water...

January 15th, 2025 HHSC received funding for 69 new positions to assist with these investigations, specifically to address the backlog of open cases.  All newly employed persons are in various stages of training with some already having completed their training. The goal is to have all investigations for ‘pending intakes’ over 30 days completed by this fall.  This may result in some providers receiving an increase in communications from PI. Note: The number of pending intake cases over 30 days...

December 31st, 2025 Now Effective: LTCOP HCS and TxHmL Transfer Form Submission Sequencing Enhancements On December 18, 2025, the Texas Medicaid & Healthcare Partnership (TMHP) released enhancements to the Long-Term Care Online Portal (LTCOP) that are designed to streamline the transfer process for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) waiver programs. These updates are now in effect for use by providers and local intellectual and developmental...

December 30th, 2025 January 27th, Register for HCS, TxHmL and PI Quarterly Webinar HHSC Long-term Care Regulation will host a webinar for HCS, TxHmL and PI providers regarding the latest information from LTCR. Jan. 27, 2026 10–11 a.m. Register for the webinar. Email LTCR Policy to request agenda items or for questions related to this webinar.   October 5th, 2025 October 29th, IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar with HHSC LTCR HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation (LTCR) will host a webinar on the...

December 24th, 2025 New Renewal Requirements for the Direct Care Careers Platform Direct Care Careers (DCC) is a free online platform to connect people seeking work as personal care attendants with employers delivering home and community-based services. To ensure DCC candidates have access to current and active opportunities, all job posts on the DCC platform now require renewal every 90 days. We encourage employers to review their active job posts regularly to ensure the quality, accuracy,...

December 24th, 2025 Critical Incident Management System (CIMS) Monthly Provider Demonstrations FEI Systems will host a monthly provider demonstration webinar on Jan. 13, 2026, from 10-11 a.m. Monthly provider demonstration webinars are offered to providers with access to the Critical Incident Management System (CIMS). The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) encourages providers to take advantage of these live training opportunities. This applies to: Community Living Assistance and...

December 22nd, 2025 Texas Flu Pre-Book Webinar January 9th, 2026 Join the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) for the Texas Vaccines for Children (TVFC) 2026–2027 Influenza Pre-Book Webinar.  Register for the following date:  January 9, 2026, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Registration Link: https://attendee.gotowebinar.com/register/2301876423463217497  After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar. ...

December 14th, 2025 ICF/IID UPL Supplemental Payment Program:  Enrollment Portal Update HHSC has updated the location of the enrollment portal for the federal fiscal year (FFY) 2026 Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) Upper Payment Limit (UPL) supplemental payment program. Enrollment for the FFY 2026 program year opened on Dec. 1, 2025, and will remain open until 11:59 p.m. Dec. 31, 2025. Enrollment instructions can be...

December 4th, 2025 Very Important:  IDRC Form Updated Form used for: HCS/TxHml/ICF/CLASS/DBMD Form 8578 Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions Assessment and Instructions Update: An update to Form 8578 Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions Assessment and Instructions is now available. The effective date for the form and form instructions is the date of publication, Nov. 14, 2025. Click here for the new form.

December 4th, 2025 December 2025 LTCR Provider Webinar Training Opportunities Home and Community-Based Services and Texas Home Living Provider (HCS/TxHmL) Joint Training Webinars Plan of Removal for HCS/TxHmL Providers Tuesday, Dec. 16 2–3:30 p.m. Register here for the webinar. Medication Management for HCS/TxHmL Providers Monday, Dec. 22 1:30–3 p.m. Register here for the webinar. For more training opportunities, visit the Joint Training Course Catalog.

December 3rd, 2025 The Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) Immunization Section has announced the release of the National Influenza Vaccination Week (NIVW) 2025 Digital Toolkit. NIVW takes place each December and highlights the importance of flu vaccination during influenza season. This week-long observance reinforces that it is not too late for Texans to receive a flu vaccine and protect themselves, their families, and their communities. The NIVW 2025 Digital Toolkit provides...

November 18th, 2025 Holiday Season Availability: Twogether Consulting will be closed from November 25th, 2025-November 30th, 2025.  We will be closed from December 17th, 2025-January 4th, 2026.  You may email of course, and we will be checking it periodically, but we will not be taking on any new client projects or assignments these days, as no one will be available in the office. If you already have scheduled dates and projects with us during that time, we will still be providing those...

November 16th, 2025 HCS providers have been contacting Twogether Consulting about certain requirements and/or changes in what surveyors are asking for this year from HCS providers. Below are a few things you should make sure you have completed and/or corrected prior to your survey.  I will try to update this as we receive feedback from providers, provider associations, and even HHSC staff. Here are some areas surveyors are focusing on:  Smoke detectors: must be in working order and have...

November 16th, 2025 The IDD Preadmission Screening and Resident Review (IDD-PASRR) Handbook, revision 25-1, updates the handbook. This revision is effective Nov. 12, 2025. Review the updates linked here.

November 16th, 2025 HHSC will be providing ongoing opportunities for CLASS and DBMD providers and FMSAs to hear about recent program updates. CLASS and DBMD Quarterly Webinar December 17, 2025 10 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. Topics discussed will include: CLASS - Training Module Updates, Adding AA to an IPC DBMD – Region 1 Update, SPT meetings PES – Submission standards for ID/RCs, IPC Pre and Enrollment Packets Fair Hearings – The appeals process with a loss of financial eligibility HCS - Crisis...

November 15th, 2025 On 11/13/2025 -Medical Care Advisory Committee had a meeting discussing Rider 23.  You can access the recording of this meeting using the link below: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/about/live-archived-meetings Also, there is a PowerPoint and you can click on agenda item #9. PowerPoint from MCAC meeting STAIRS is moving to STEPS, the HHSC link below serves as a reminder as to how you can find the most current information about this upcoming change....

November 14th, 2025 If you were unable to attend the virtual conference, copies of the handouts can be found below Cross-Agency Employment Conference 2024 Program Handout PowerPoint Handout   HHSC was not able to able to record the event nor did they allow time for Q&A. Questions, however, may be submitted to:  employment_services_virtual_conference@hhs.texas.gov

November 11th, 2025 A recording of the October 30 DAHS and Individualized Skills and Socialization provider webinar with HHSC Long-term Care Regulation is now available. The presentation (PDF) is also available. Listen to the webinar recording. Email LTCR Policy for a transcript. May 4th, 2025 A recording of the April 24 DAHS and Individualized Skills and Socialization provider webinar with HHSC Long-term Care Regulation is now available. The presentation (PDF) is also available. Listen to the...

November 10th, 2025 HHSC Rider 23 from the 2026-2027 General Appropriations Act, Senate Bill 1, 89th Texas Legislature HHSC has published the Information Letter IL 2025-25 regarding the Rider 23: Texas Administrative Code Rule Amendments, Personal Attendant Base Wage Discontinuation, Rate Enhancement Discontinuation, Established Average Hourly Wage Assumed in Methodology, and Established Direct Care Wage and Benefits Expense Ratio, effective September 1, 2025. Review the IL for more...

November 7th, 2025 The October 29th recording of the IDD Programs and Provider Investigations Quarterly Webinar with Long-term Care Regulation is now available. Listen to the webinar recording. Read the IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar PDF Email LTCR Policy for the transcript.

October 28th, 2025 Medicaid Eligibility Reports - SSI Medicaid HHSC has been working on enhancements to improve awareness and visibility of the Medicaid recertification date to increase timely submission.  HHSC announced that be making changes to the current training video on this subject and will release info about this in the near future. Current video on this topic (updated 7 months ago) is available at:  https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLIe60BLvrbESNOLho-L03v4Vf-GH4TNv1 March 25th,...

October 28th, 2025 Click On The Webinar Name Below To Register For Upcoming Webinars From Consolidated Planning Group November 4, 2025 12:00p - 1:00p Webinar Educational Options After High School for Special Needs Families - Plus Bonus Content About The New Texas Education Savings Account!   November 6, 2025 12:00p - 1:00p Webinar 4 Things You Need to Know About Protecting Your Child With Special Needs with Special Needs Attorney Michele Goldberg   November 11, 2025 12:00p - 1:00p...

October 28th, 2025 November SNAP Benefits & Information Resources  Due to the current federal government shutdown, there will be insufficient funds to pay SNAP benefits for November. For Texas and the millions of Texans who will be affected, and more specifically, the individuals in the Texas HCS and TxHmL programs who receive SNAP benefits, as well as possibly many of your own staff that you may employ, we want you to know the following:   The three IDD associations are working together...

October 28th, 2025 OIG Beginning Auditing of Cost Reports If you attended the Office of Inspector General (OIG) session at PPAT's 28th Annual Conference you may recall Susan Biles, OIG, stating that the OIG's FY 2026 Work Plan would include auditing HCS/TxHmL cost reports. We have received updated information since their presentation at PPAT, as a result of some of the inquiries during the session.   Some providers have already began receiving requests from OIG for a copy of the cost report...

October 27th, 2025 HHSC Rider 56 (89th Texas Legislature):  According to HHSC, it's in the beginning stages of implementation but plans to engage stakeholders in the process in early January as well as publish a communication about the Rider and related implementation plans. Rider 56:  Appropriate Care Settings for Individuals with Severe and Persistent Mental Illness and Co-Occurring Conditions Study.   Out of funds appropriated in Strategy D.2.5, Community Behavioral Health Administration,...

October 23rd, 2025 HCS Program & Cameras in Private Areas:  HHSC Medicaid division sent Regulatory staff at HHSC an email informing them that "CMS thinks there's a privacy concern regarding cameras being allowed in private areas (even if justifications are in place), and that CMS will no longer permit this practice." According to HHSC, currently, there are no HCS rules specific to this matter.  HHSC stated that more details will be forthcoming, but for now, members should be informed that,...

October 23rd, 2025 New cost limits for the IDD waivers are as follows: For DBMD and CLASS, HHSC updated the individual cost limits from $114,736.07 to $149,774. For TxHmL, HHSC updated the individual cost limit from: $17,000 to $31,684. For HCS, HHSC updated the individual cost limit based on level of need (LON) as described below: Intermittent (LON 1), Limited (LON 5), and Extensive (LON 8) The amount is increasing from $167,468 to $169,182. Pervasive (LON 6) The amount is increasing from...

October 22nd, 2025 PEMS Update: HHSC and TMHP have been working on changes to the Provider Enrollment and Management System (PEMS)  process in conjunction with a workgroup comprised of external stakeholders which cross all Medicaid programs subject to this federal requirement.  Though not all changes can be made at once, HHSC will soon begin making incremental changes. HHSC/TMHP will test changes with volunteer representatives before initiating permanent changes. April 15th, 2025 Beginning May...

October 22nd, 2025 There has been and still currently is a big backlog of ANE Investigations:  Currently, over 3,000 ANE intakes in the HCS program are pending investigations. The 89th Texas Legislature appropriated one-time funds for HHSC to hire 31 staff to investigate and close these cases.  See excerpt from HHSC Rider 164 below. Is there a point of contact that providers can reach out to check on the status of an open case and how they can obtain a final report if informed that a case has...

October 14th, 2025 Post Convention Report This year's AAIDD-Texas Chapter 49th Annual Convention was on Sept. 30th-Oct. 3rd, 2025, and we had a wonderful turnout.  As you may or may not know, this is my first year on the board, and it was an awesome experience.  I know there were some providers, LIDDA's, and individuals who just didn't have funding to come this year or possibly the timing was just not right, and we thank all of you who could make it to the convention.  This has been a tough...

October 12th, 2025  DO NOT CLICK FILES, LINKS, OR FWD! The Texas Health and Human Services Commission has identified an active phishing attempt. The message may appear to come from a trusted colleague, sender, or HHSC email address and often includes links, meeting invites, or file attachments that appear to be legitimate. If you receive an unexpected or suspicious email, don’t click on the links, open the attachments, or accept the invite. HHSC is actively working to resolve this issue and...

October 6th, 2025 TULIP System Updates PLEASE BE ADVISED THAT HHSC WILL BE PERFORMING SYSTEM UPDATES TO TULIP.   Don't forget all EMR checks (Misconduct & Nurses Aids checks) are done through TULIP for HCS/TxHmL/ISS Providers TULIP will be unavailable from October 31st, 2025 @ 5:00pm to November 3, 2025 @ 8:00am. These updates are necessary to improve system performance and reliability.   More details on issues like password reset will be sent out as they approach the transition...

October 5th, 2025 HHSC Long-term Care Regulation will host a webinar for Day Activity and Health Services (DAHS) and Individualized Skills and Socialization providers Date: October 30, 2025 Time: 11 a.m. to noon. Place:  Webinar DAHS and Individualized Skills and Socialization providers should attend this and all webinars with HHSC LTCR. LTCR will provide the latest updates and answer questions from participants. Register for the webinar.

October 3rd, 2025 Save the date for the second annual Cross Agency Employment Conference on Thursday, November 13, 2025. What: Cross Agency Employment Conference When: Thursday, November 13, 2025 Where: Online Registration: Registration will open in mid-October. More Information The Cross Agency Employment Conference will feature presenters from Texas HHS, the Texas Workforce Commission, and the Texas Education Agency. The conference is open to agency staff, job seekers, providers, family...

Oct 3rd, 2025 HHSC is hosting a free webinar on World Mental Health Day, Friday, October 10, 2025, from 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. CST. What: Webinar on Advances in Trauma Informed Care When: Friday, October 10, 2025, 9:30 a.m. to 11 a.m. CST Register Now: Register for the webinar. Trauma is not just an event, it’s an experience that disrupts a person’s sense of safety, stability, and connection. It can alter brain development, behavior, and emotional regulation. For many people, trauma leaves...

September 19th, 2025 The link for IL-2-25-24 is:  https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/il2025-24.pdf This IL replaces; i.e., IL 2025-17, and it does provide links to the Information Letters HHSC has previously posted regarding IPC and ISP changes in the HCS, TxHmL, CLASS and DBMD programs. Based on questions many providers have asked about the wage rate, please note the statement on page 1 that states Rider 23 increases attendant wages to an average of $13/hour.    From HHSC...

September 17th, 2025 HHSC issued a 3rd notice on changes to the employability status search process and PPAT has received alot of concerned phone calls from providers concerning this new process.  PPAT contacted HHSC and requested they conduct a session at PPAT's conference next week: to review the new system with providers, inform them which functions are not yet operable, explain surveyor expectations of providers during this time of transition and answer questions. They said YES!   The...

September 10th, 2025 "From HHSC" HHSC has announced that registering for Joint Training will be easier and more efficient through our new Learning Management System (LMS), Learning Tree. Long-Term Care Regulation (LTCR) Joint Training began using the LMS for training registration on Sept. 1, 2025. What is the Learning Tree LMS? A user-friendly online platform designed to enhance your learning experience. Centralizes course registration and access. You’ll need an account to register for...

September 3rd, 2025 Individuals that reside in institutions such as a nursing facility, state-supported living center (SSLC), or intermediate care facilities, who have IDD often have many significant medical, psychiatric, and behavioral needs that create challenges to living successfully in the most integrated community setting. Serving individuals who transition or divert from these institutions often requires specialized staff, intensive training, and expertise across several fields of study...

August 30th, 2025 CMS has approved the 1915 (c) waiver amendments with an effective date of September 1, 2025. This means that the rates funded by Rider 23 and posted by HHSC on August 19, 2025 will be effective September 1, 2025. Copy of Information Letter 2025-17 and link to approved rates -  https://www.hhs.texas.gov/sites/default/files/documents/il2025-17.pdf New Information Letters ILs):  Please read these letters very carefully, especially if you provide services to people using the CDS...

July 28th, 2025 Home and Community-based Services (HCS) HCS Home page Provider Letters/Provider Communications!!! Click here for news, information letters (ILs) & provider letters (PLs). To receive provider letters & communications for HCS/TxHmL/ICF/ISS or other HHSC programs, please go to GovDelivery signup from Granicus at: https://service.govdelivery.com/accounts/TXHHSC/subscriber/new Remember to only sign up for the alert letters and communications for the programs that apply to...

July 22nd, 2025 From HHSC's PAT  FAQ's as of Jan. 1st, 2023 "Frequently Asked Questions for Providers Applicant Training (PAT) for HCS/TXHML" -When is the Provider Applicant Training (PAT) and Test available? This training is available online at this time (training modules). The PAT Test itself is being revamped and is not available to take until  September of 2025. If you are trying to apply for an HCS/TxHmL contract at this time, you will not be able to submit HCS/TxHmL applications without...

July 22, 2025 From our friends at Statewise: 7 essential steps to EVV compliance, as well as Pro Tips are provided in this free checklist from Statewise. "At Statewise, we’ve made it easier for providers like you to stay on top of your responsibilities with a free EVV Compliance Checklist—designed specifically for Texas Medicaid agencies." Texas EVV Compliance Checklist Free  For more info on Texas EVV from Statewise:

July 22nd, 2025 Attendant Rate and Cost Limit Revisions Webinar on July 22 HHSC will be providing updates to Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) providers, and local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs) on the topic of attendant rate and cost limit revisions for the waivers. Attendant Rate and Cost Limit Revisions Webinar July 22, 2025 2–3 p.m. Register here for the webinar. Run a test of your computer’s connectivity if you have never...

June 30th, 2025 HHSC Publishes IL-2025-11 HHSC will propose increased rates for identified attendant services and discontinue the Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement program, effective Sept. 1, 2025. These changes are pursuant to the 2026-27 General Appropriations Act, Senate Bill 1, 89th Legislature, Regular Session, 2025 (Article II, HHSC, Rider 23). HHSC has published Information Letter (IL) 25-11, Discontinuation of the Attendant Compensation Rate Enhancement Program and Rate Increases...

June 30th, 2025 Rate Packets Now Available The rate hearing packets were posted on the PFD website on June 23, 2025. The hearing is being conducted to receive public testimony on the proposed Medicaid Rates. Public Rate Hearing on July 16, 2025 The HHSC Provider Finance Department (PFD) Long Term Services and Support (LTSS) will hold its Public Rate Hearing on July 16, 2025, to address proposed rates for the following: Medicaid and Non-Medicaid Payment Rate Actions for Attendant Services in...

June 26th, 2025 We would greatly appreciate a quote from any of our clients who would like to write up a short paragraph on how we may have helped your organization or any recommendations you have for others about our services at Twogether Consulting that you may have used over the years. We are also happy to accept updates to previous satisfied customer quotes that are currently posted on the site.  Link to Satisfied Customers Page If you would like to send us a quote, feel free to email us...

Subscribe To The Twogether Consulting Mailing List! 2025 June 18th, 2025 June 2nd, 2025 May 16th, 2025 April 17th, 2025-correction/addendum April 15th, 2025 April 1st, 2025 March 17th, 2025 March 2nd, 2025 February 17th, 2025 February 3rd, 2025 January 17th, 2025 January 8th, 2025 2024   December 16th, 2024 December 3rd, 2024 November 16th, 2024 October 31st, 2024 October 15th, 2024 October 1st, 2024 September 17th, 2024 September 3rd, 2024 August 16th, 2024 August 5th, 2024 July 15th,...

June 26th, 2025 What Providers Need To Know "TMP has joined Cubhub as part of the Statewise family—but nothing's changing for Texas providers. TMP remains your trusted platform for IDD services." Important:  What’s changing? Just the name of the platform (From TMP to Statewise). With the support of Cubhub, TMP will get stronger and gain improved features, but it will continue to serve as the primary platform for Texas-based IDD and personal care providers.   You will continue using the TMP...

June 25th, 2025 In case you were not aware, and you missed last year's conference, we wanted to make sure ICF providers knew they could still watch the sessions.  Great For your Q's, Administrators, and QA staff. HHSC Long Term Care Regulation has posted 4 recorded sessions from the 2024 ICF Conference "Embracing Change to Enhance Value" held Dec. 5, 2024. No CEs or certificates of attendance are offered for viewing these recorded sessions. Access the recordings here.

June 25th, 2025   From iCareManager email received on June 25th, 2025 iCareManager Website "We are thrilled to introduce you to the innovative & efficient iCareManager All-In-One EHR Solution! Whether you connected with us at a conference or online, you’ve just taken the first step towards smarter, simpler, and more efficient IDD service delivery. To kick things off, we’re attaching our 2025 e-book. It will give you a complete overview of who we are, what we offer, and how our EHR...

Free Webinars!! All Recordings of Our Previous sessions of "Free IDD Provider Resource Webinars"  are posted on our "Gotostage" Channel June 22nd, 2025 FREE WEBINAR: From Our "Free IDD Provider & Family Resource Webinar Series" Date: June 30th, 2025 Time:  Noon to 1:00 pm Cost: FREE Registration Twogether Consulting is pleased to have Rachel Hopkins, Program Director of Healthcare Services at Molina HealthCare of Texas as our guest presenter of our "Free IDD Provider & Family Resource...

June 23rd, 2025 HHS, in collaboration with The University of Texas Steve Hicks School of Social Work, will host an informative two-day, free conference on quality in long-term care. The 2025 Quality in Long-Term Care Conference (QLTCC) will be held at the Renaissance Austin Hotel, Aug. 27-28, 2025. This year’s theme is “Blazing a Trail to Quality Improvement in Long-Term Care." The QLTCC offers presentations from nationally and internationally recognized experts. The topics include caring for...

June 23rd, 2025 HHSC Joint Training is presenting a new webinar for Intermediate Care Facility (ICF) providers on the internal investigation process for ICFs. This 1.5 hour webinar provides guidance for ICF providers on conducting a required internal investigation when notified of an incident. The first presentation of this training will be held July 18, 2025. Register for this training at HHS Provider Joint Training Opportunities.

June 22nd, 2025 The Quality Monitoring Program and The University of Texas at Austin School of Nursing are offering a free webinar for nurses and nursing facility administrators. “Diving into Enhanced Barrier Precautions for Nursing Facilities,” will be hosted by epidemiologist Annie Nutt on June 25 from noon to 1 p.m. Central time. The webinar aims to guide and improve the care of Texas residents using evidence-based best practices. Learning objectives will include: • Understanding the...

June 20th, 2025 HHSC Requests Comments on TxHmL Amendment Effective Sept. 1, 2025 HHSC is accepting comments on the amendment of the 1915(c) Texas Home Living Waiver. View the TxHmL amendment details. Through this amendment, HHSC updated the attendant rates and increased the TxHmL individual cost limit from: $17,000 to 50 percent of the annualized cost of care in an Intermediate Care Facility for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Condition (ICF/IID) using the fiscal year...

June 20th, 2025 HHSC Requests Comments on CLASS Amendment Effective Sept. 1, 2025 HHSC is accepting comments on the amendment of the 1915(c)  Community Living Assistance and Support Services Waiver. View the CLASS amendment details. Through this amendment, HHSC updated the attendant rates and increased the CLASS individual cost limit from $114,736.07 to 210 percent of the annualized cost of care in an Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related...

June 1st, 2025 Hurricane Season – Ready or Not! Preparedness for HCS/TxHmL/ISS Tuesday, June 17 10–11:30 am Register Here Hurricane Season – Ready or Not! Preparedness for Intermediate Care Facilities Friday, June 20 10–11:30 a.m. Register here Click on the following links for more training opportunities: Joint Training HCSSA Training OASIS Training HCS and TxHmL Training Individualized Skills and Socialization Training May 18th, 2025 Planning For Flooding & Hurricane Season ** Please...

Behavioral Support Services HCS and TxHmL Behavioral Support Services Provider Policy Training (Has been mandated for HCS & TxHmL providers to ensure their contracted Behavioral Support Services providers to take since March 2015) This course informs service providers of behavioral support services in the HCS and TxHmL programs related to the provision of behavioral support services in those programs.  All new behavior support service providers must complete the WBT before providing...

May 31st, 2025 Please help ensure Medicaid continues to support Individuals in Texas with IDD.  More than ever, we need everyone to focus their efforts on contacting our U.S. Senate representatives. Call Senator John Cornyn (1-202-224-2934) and Senator Ted Cruz (1-202-224-5922) to continue to ensure we have Medicaid to support programs serving individuals with IDD, as well as directly support individuals with IDD in Texas. The ARC of TEXAS has supplied a nice script for you, or your person...

May 30th, 2025 Governor Abbott signed House Bill 2081, officially creating the Building Better Futures program into law on May 26th, 2025. This will be a step toward a more inclusive and accessible future for all Texans, including those with disabilities. Rep. John Bucy III authored the bill, and it was sponsored by Senator José Menéndez.  This law takes effect immediately and establishes a grant program within the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) to support colleges and...