Twogether Updates

October 31st, 2025 From Twogether Consulting Hello Everyone! Happy Halloween!  I hope all of you have special fun planned for today for yourselves and your individuals.  The fall weather is finally here, so be sure and dress warm if you are out trick or treating tonight.  Don't forget that this is also the time to start planning for winter weather emergencies, if you have not already.  Here are some tips from Disability Rights of Texas:...

October 31st, 2025 Now Is The Time To Start Prepping For Winter Weather  Emergencies It finally feels like fall weather in Texas, and before you know it, winter will be upon us.  As IDD providers, you all know that you can't wait til the last minute. For winter weather preparation, IDD providers should focus on creating an emergency kit with supplies like food, water, medication, and batteries, and ensuring a backup heat and power source. It is crucial to make a plan for both individuals and...

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 27th, 2025 ICAP Software:   HHSC reported that the University of Minnesota has acquired the publishing rights to the ICAP from Riverside Publishing.  The University intends to make 'massive' revisions to the ICAP which should be completed in the next 4 years. Currently, the University has made 'technical' changes to the instructions, which it plans to test before moving forward with other changes.  The University will also make the software available to users for free. HHSC emphasized...

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...

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. October 6th, 2025 * Reminder about New Long-Term Care Regulation Training...

October 6th, 2025 October Update HHSC will switch to a new web-based software application that will be used to collect information from providers for Medicaid and non-Medicaid cost reports, Supplemental and Directed Payment Program enrollments, and legislatively directed reports, starting in early 2026. The new system, State of Texas Electronic Provider System (STEPS), will update and simplify the reporting and directed payment program enrollment processes. The current system, the State of...

October 5th, 2025  Texas Human Services Commission (HHSC) will be hosting free in-person Employment First/Employment Services trainings across the state from October to December 2025.   What: Employment First/Employment Services Training Where: Wichita Falls, San Angelo, Weslaco, Lufkin, Sugar Land, and San Antonio When: Various dates from October to December 2025 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 register...

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 5th, 2025 October 29th, IDD and PI Quarterly Webinar with HHSC LTCR HHSC Long-Term Care Regulation (LTCR) will host a webinar on the latest information from LTCR for providers for the following programs: HCS, TxHmL, ISS, PI, and ICF. Date:  Oct. 29, 2025 Time:  2–3 p.m. Register for the webinar. If it is difficult to register for the webinar using Internet Explorer, try using another browser, such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge. For questions or to request an agenda, email LTCR...

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...

October 3rd, 2025 FYI: HHAeXchange Mobile Application Issue Resolved Last Month HHSC was made aware of an issue that prevented service providers from using the HHAeXchange mobile application to record visits on Saturday, Sept. 20. The issue was resolved at 6:17 p.m. that day. If service providers were unable to clock in or clock out during the outage, program providers, financial management services agencies and Consumer Directed Services employers responsible for visit maintenance must enter...

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 17th, 2025 Employability Status Check Changes As Of September 7th, 2025 HHSC recently moved the Employability Status Check search to the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP). FYI-An issue was found by HHSC, during the transition process, with the Employability Status Check data retrieval process, which is causing some difficulty for providers conducting due diligence searches. HHSC is working diligently to resolve the problem..  Providers will be notified about a...

September 15th, 2025 Updated ICF/IID Services Payment Rates HHSC has published updated fee schedules for Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) regarding the approved payment rates for services. The HHSC Provider Finance Department (PFD) webpage has more information about the approved payment rates. If you have further questions, email HHSC PFD, Long-term Services and Supports (LTSS), Center for Information and Training, or...

September 11th, 2025 Employability Status Check (Nurse's Aide/Misconduct Registry) Update As of Sept. 11th, 2025 HHSC has moved the Employability Status Check search to the Texas Unified Licensure Information Portal (TULIP). During this transition, Regulatory staff identified an issue with the Employability Status Check data retrieval process that is causing some difficulty for providers conducting due diligence searches. HHSC is hoping to resolve the issue by tomorrow. HHSC will provide a...

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 23rd, 2025 Program providers and other interested stakeholders can now register for the upcoming HCS and TxHmL quarterly webinar. HCS and TxHmL Quarterly Webinar August 28, 2025 10:00am-12:00pm Register here for the August 28 HCS-TxHmL Quarterly Webinar Webinar topics include: Form Updates TMHP: Claims Data Export & Enrollment Form Processing Enhancements for HCS and TxHmL Level of Need Submission Requirements and Resources EVV Required Services and Documentation Email questions about...

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 2nd, 2025 Critical Incident Management System (CIMS) Monthly Provider Demonstrations Note: All Critical Incidents are entered into the CIMS system for HCS/TxHmL providers.  FYI-ISS providers please report all critical incidents to CIIS in Tulip, not CIMS. FEI Systems will host a monthly provider demonstration webinar on June 10, 2025, from 10–11 a.m. Monthly provider demonstration webinars are offered to providers with access to the Critical Incident Management System. HHSC encourages...

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...

May 26th, 2025 As of May 25th, 2025, the House and Senate have passed a bill that will create a plan for greater inclusion of children with disabilities in early education programs. The Texas Senate gave final passage to House Bill 2310. The bill was authored by Rep. Claudia Ordaz and sponsored by Senator Tan Parker.   It would require the TEA (Texas Education Agency), TWC (Texas Workforce Commission), and HHSC (Health and Human Services Commission) to develop a strategic plan to increase the...

May 22nd, 2025 IDD Operations Portal (IDD Ops Portal) Administrators will provide a brief overview of the new and enhanced view of the system. Attendees are recommended to attend either session as they provide the same information. Register for the May 23rd IDD Operations Portal Enhanced View Training 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. OR Register for the May 28th IDD Operations Portal Enhanced View Training 2 p.m. to 3 p.m. Topics include: Initial and single user account setup Navigation of new portal view...

May 20th, 2025 Home and Community-Based Services – Adult Mental Health Program CBT trainings Home & Community-Based Services – Adult Mental Health (contains provider training and resource information) Adult Mental Health Home & Community-based Services Other information about the program: https://www.hhs.texas.gov/providers/behavioral-health-services-providers-programs/home-community-based-services-adult-mental-health

May 20th, 2025 These are the most recent postings from HHSC, hopefully, those for 2024 will be posted soon,  Home and Community-based Services 10 Most Frequently Cited Deficiencies in Home and Community-based Services (HCS) & Texas Home Living (TxHmL) — Fiscal Year 2023 (July 16, 2024) Texas Home Living 10 Most Frequently Cited Deficiencies in Home and Community-based Services (HCS) & Texas Home Living (TxHmL) — Fiscal Year 2023 (July 16, 2024) Intermediate Care Facilities 10 Most...

May 18th, 2025 From HHSC Deat & Hard of Hearing Services: "Join the Texas Health and Human Services Commission Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services for EXPLORE!, a webinar presented by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) Accessibility Team. Discover the latest updates and initiatives across Texas public lands, focusing on accessibility and inclusivity. From camping in a state park to touring a fish hatchery or renewing your hunting license at a law enforcement office, TPWD is...

May 17th, 2025 New Employment Readiness Assessment Tool On January 1, 2025, the Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC), implemented the new employment readiness benefit available to individuals enrolled in the Home and Community-based Services (HCS), Texas Home Living (TxHmL), or Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD) waiver programs for individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities. HHSC is required to assess all settings where employment readiness is provided for...

May 16th, 2025 In accordance with 26 TAC §52.113 (relating to Record Retention and Disposition) and the requirements of the Community Services Provider Contract or Provider Agreement, all records must be developed and retained in the form in which they were created until the latest of the following: seven (7) years after a claim is submitted; seven (7) years after all issues involving the record have been mitigated; or the individual about whom the record relates becomes 21 years of age. If a...

May 15th, 2025 National/International Conferences & Conventions: AAIDD Annual Meeting- The American Association on Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (AAIDD) will hold its 149th annual meeting from June 23-25 in  Washington D.C.  This conference will focus on mentorship, access, equity, and collaboration in the IDD field. Texas State Chapter of AAIDD Convention- Takes place Sept. 29th-Oct. 2nd in Corpus Christi, Tx   CR Unite Autism and IDD Care Conference-Hosted by...

May 15th, 2025 Deadline for Informal Comments: May 30 Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is accepting comments from stakeholders on the following draft rules related to an interagency reportable conduct search engine. The comment period ends May 30, 2025. Texas Administrative Code, Title 26, Chapter 550, Chapter 551, Chapter 553, Chapter 554, Chapter 555, Chapter 556, Chapter 557, Chapter 558, Chapter 559, Chapter 560, Chapter 565, (HCS) and Chapter 566 (TxHmL), concerning...

May 6th, 2025 Additional Cost Report Training for HCS/TxHmL and ICF/IID or Related Conditions The HHSC Provider Finance Department (PFD) has scheduled an additional 2024 Cost Report Training for Home and Community-based Services/Texas Home Living (HCS/TxHmL) and Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) on Wednesday, May 7, 2025, at 9 a.m. Register here for this training or visit the HHSC PFD Cost and Accountability Report...

May 5th, 2025 The May 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, reminders, training opportunities, and other important program updates. February 15, 2025 The February 2025 Long-Term Care (LTC) Provider Bulletin has been published on the LTC homepage on TMHP.com.

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 webinar recording. Email LTCR Policy for a transcript.

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 revision is effective April 29, 2025. Review the updates linked here. November 26th, 2024 The HCS Handbook Has Been Revised The Home and Community-based Services (HCS) Handbook revision 24-1 updates Appendix X. This...

May 3rd, 2025 The LIDDA Handbook Has Been Revised The Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority (LIDDA) Handbook, revision 25-3, updates form references. This revision is effective May 1, 2025. Review the updates linked here. February 26th, 2025 The LIDDA Handbook Has Been Revised The Local Intellectual and Developmental Disability Authority Handbook (LIDDA) revision 25-2 updates sections 19220, 19230 and Form 8591. This revision is effective Feb. 26, 2025. Click this link to...

April 25th, 2025 “Caytlin Handley Act”  On April 8, the House Committee on Public Education heard House Bill 1188, filed by Rep. Christian Manuel. This bill would require school districts to provide families of students identified as eligible to receive special education services due to a diagnosis of  IDD or developmental delay to their  (LIDDA), ensuring students and families are informed about Medicaid waiver programs, long-term services and supports, and other community resources. From the...

April 18th, 2025 Job Position Lone Star HCS (Conroe, Tx)     Job Position:  Host Home/Companion Care Service Provider Please see information below and contacts to respond. Looking for Host Home/Companion Care provider who wants to care for 3 young men, 2 of which are fairly independent. The 3rd individual needs a bit more help with hygiene and meal preparation. The host home is located in the Woodlands, Texas area near Conroe and Houston. If you are interested in the position, please...

April 15th, 2025 The proposed billing requirement revisions and a summary of changes are located on the Long-term Care Providers webpage and are outlined below: HCS CFC Billing Requirements for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Draft Revision 25-1(PDF) CFC Billing Requirements for HCS and TxHmL Program Providers Draft Revision 25-1 Summary of Changes (PDF)

April 15th, 2025 From our friends at Texas Council on Developmental Disabilities: IDD Coordinating Council TCDD Senior Public Policy Analyst Lauren Gerken provided verbal testimony on March 25 to the House Human Services Committee on House Bill (HB) 2807, which would establish a statewide intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) coordinating council. She discussed how this new council would bring multiple agencies together to develop strategies on optimizing the complex system of...

April 12th, 2025 HHSC is providing notification of the Intergovernmental Transfer (IGT) call for the Intermediate Care Facilities Upper Payment Limit (ICF UPL) 2Qtr2025 payment. The federal fiscal year 2025 ICF UPL Quarterly Payments file was updated on April 15, 2025, and can be found on the Intermediate Care Facilities for Individuals with an Intellectual Disability or Related Conditions (ICF/IID) UPL Supplemental Payment Program website. IGT amounts due are in Column J, under the “2nd...

April 10th, 2025 Resource Links:  Consideration of the budget as well as HB 500, the supplemental budget, by the House will occur today at 9:00am, Thursday, April 10th. HB 500 (supplemental):  https://www.capitol.state.tx.us/tlodocs/89R/billtext/pdf/HB00500H.pdf#navpanes=0   House Rules Adopted related to Consideration of the Budget:  To view the rules adopted by the House on April 2, 2025 related to consideration of the budget (SB 1), see pages 2 - 4 at the following link:...

March 31st, 2025 Many of you may know our friend and colleague Marie "Lynn" Palmares.  Lynn has worked in ICF and HCS programs in the Dallas/Ft. Worth area for many years.  In the past 8 years or so she has been working with the YES waiver program.  Lynn has helped many providers as an independent contractor and as a consultant for Twogether Consulting over the past 10 years with their HCS and YES waiver programs.  In addition, Lynn has assisted our clients at Twogether Consulting with their...

March 30th, 2025 Permanent Policy Change for CFC PAS/HAB- Letter 2025-04  HHSC has published Information Letter 2025-04 Permanent Change to HCS and TxHmL Policy for Community First Choice (CFC) personal assistance services (PAS)/habilitation (HAB) service providers. This letter informs financial management services agencies (FMSAs), local intellectual and developmental disability authorities (LIDDAs), and providers of Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL)...

March 14th, 2025 Deaf and Hard of Hearing Services From HHSC Presents Overview of the Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP) Wednesday, March 26, 2025 11:00 a.m. - 12:30 p.m., CST Join Aaron Mowell, STAP manager, for an overview of the Specialized Telecommunications Assistance Program (STAP). The purpose of STAP is to allow people with disabilities to access the telephone network, enabling them to call family and friends, make doctor’s appointments, and reach emergency...

March 15th, 2025 Medicaid and CHIP Services (MCS) will be hosting monthly sessions for Program Providers and Financial Management Services Agencies (FMSAs), who use the Long-term Care (LTC) online portal for the Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) waiver programs. TMHP and HHSC staff will be available to troubleshoot and potentially resolve issues with forms and claim submissions in the LTC online portal. All attendees should be prepared to discuss and show,...

February 28th, 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 March 19, 2025 10–11:30 a.m. Topics to be discussed will include: CLASS/DBMD — Upcoming form updates, June webinar. UR/PES — UR/PES responsibility changes. EVV — EVV updates. Fair Hearing — Fair hearings information. Register for the webinar. Email CLASSPolicy@hhs.texas.gov and DBMDPolicy@hhs.texas.gov with any...

February 27th, 2025  Into the Spotlight has been released to the general public, as of February 21, 2025. You can find it on YouTube Movies, Google Play, Apple TV and through other streaming and on-demand services. This documentary follows a group of Dallas area theatre performers with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their amazing director who are part of the "Spotlight" program. They wrote, developed, and performed their own play. This program Spotlight Academy of The Arts,...

February 20th, 2025 HHSC Publishes Information on Waiver and Community Services Utilization Review Process HHSC has published Information Letter 2025-02 Waiver and Community Services Utilization Review Process. This letter provides a summary of the authority for conducting field utilization reviews in the Community Living Assistance and Support Services (CLASS), Deaf Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD), Home and Community-based Services (HCS) and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Programs. There...

February 18th, 2025 HHSC Publishes Payment Rates for Employment Readiness Services in DBMD, HCS, and TxHML Waiver Programs. HHSC approved payment rates for for Employment Readiness Services in the Deaf-Blind with Multiple Disabilities (DBMD), Home and Community-Based Services (HCS), and Texas Home Living (TxHmL) Waiver Programs effective Jan. 1, 2025. More information about the approved payment rates is available on the HHSC Provider Finance Department webpage. The Employment Readiness...

February 15th, 2025 From Twogether Consulting! Hello Everyone!   Hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine's weekend. I feel like this month is flying by. Don't forget we have a "Pop-Up"webinar on Feb. 21st,2025 from 1pm-3:30pm.  This is especially great session for any new providers, as well as new program managers and case managers:“Care Coordination Basics:  Admission, Post- Admission & Other Follow-Up Required” (HCS) Twogether Consulting will be adding additional ICF and HCS...

February 15th, 2025 The Medical Care Advisory Committee (MCAC) met Thursday, February 13, 2025.  The following items of interest were on the agenda. These items were: ~  Status of Medicaid Eligibility Unwinding ~   Discussion on CMS' guidance regarding ensuring continuity of coverage for individuals receiving Home and Community-based Services ~  Employment Readiness (new service as result of HB 4169 (Price, 88 R).  View HB 4169...

February 14th, 2025 Belong Disability Ministry celebrates 15 years of Spotlight Musical Theater with a new production, “I’m on My Way” on Saturday, February 22 from 5:00 - 7:00pm at Highland Park United Methodist Church. This comedic, yet touching musical shares captivating stories of what it’s like to live with a disability through a series of DART rides. Join us in a theatrical display that features real-world scenarios, upbeat original music, and a journey in finding courage during the...

February 8th, 2025 The Texas Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) has published the 2024 Children’s Behavioral Health Strategic Plan (PDF). The five-year plan is intended to foster an environment in which Texas children and their caregivers, based on identified need, have access to compassionate, comprehensive, and innovative behavioral health care, that will help develop their resilience and enable them to thrive emotionally, mentally, and socially. The plan was developed by the Texas...

January 19th, 2025 New Emergency Communication Tool – AlertMedia. HHSC Publishes PL 2025-01 New Emergency Communication Tool – AlertMedia. This provider letter informs providers of the emergency communication system called AlertMedia, how it will be used, and their responsibility in signing up for the system. HHSC will use this system to send emergency and outreach notifications through email, text, voice calls, and app push if available. All  ALF's, DAHS's, HCSS's, ICF's, NF's and  HCS...

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 Facilities. -Culture Change...

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 will be offering HCS webinars...

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.

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 provide services again as of...

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 between multiple state agency...

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 times families cannot get off work at the...

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 extension, how it will affect currently...

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 the HCS and TxHmL provider...

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 TxHmL Billing Requirements...

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. Open a Microsoft Edge browser and log into...

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: Overview of Employment First and the...

December 5th, 2024 The STAR+PLUS Handbook updates Appendix XXII. This revision is effective Dec. 1, 2024. Click this link to see the updates.

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.