Residence in Minnesota who have disabilities and aging adults are on the cusp of receiving a financial boost from the Department of Human Services (DHS), set to kick in with the new year. The DHS announced rate and budget increases for certain services starting January 1, 2024, as a reminder in their latest weekly digest aimed at agencies, case managers, and care coordinators. Specifically, there's a slated hike for operating payment rates for intermediate care facilities for persons with developmental disabilities (ICF/DD) providers, arising from legislative shifts we saw this year.
In a statement obtained by the Aging and Adult Services Division (AASD) and Disability Services Division (DSD), the said changes "will implement increases to select service rates and monthly budgets on Jan. 1, 2024." Hailing from the recent Minnesota Legislature actions, these adjustments are intended to impact those in need directly, improving the quality and reach of services available. While the facilities brace for an uptick in funds, waiting to see the tangible effects of these changes with the turn of the calendar is the community.
Also mentioned was a reminder of the Early Intensive Developmental and Behavioral Intervention (EIDBI) program's legislative changes, which will also take effect from the start of next year. Those keen on EIDBI services are encouraged to keep abreast of the updates to make the most of them.
Apart from financial updates, the DHS is also offering learning opportunities for those working with intellectually and developmentally disabled adults and children. A virtual training series on Positive Behavior Support (PBS) invites stakeholders to register for sessions occurring on Jan. 10, Feb. 7, March 13, and April 10, 2024. Aimed to help implement PBS in community settings, according to the announcement, the series is hosted by DHS in partnership with the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration.
