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Waiver Reimagine Is Delayed What Minnesota Families Should Do Now
Waiver reimagine is delayed: what Minnesota families should do now Minnesota's planned new Disability Waiver Program will not launch on January 1, 2027. As of September 24, 2026, the Minnesota Department of Human Services has not announced a new launch date. For people who use disability waiver services, that sentence can create two opposite reactions. Some may assume nothing matters until a new date is announced. Others may worry that current services are about to disappear.
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
6 days ago9 min read


Minnesota Medical Assistance Changes Begin in October 2026
Medical Assistance changes begin in October 2026. What families need to know. Minnesota is beginning a series of federally required Medicaid changes, and the first change takes effect October 1, 2026. Because Minnesota calls its Medicaid program Medical Assistance, or MA, families may see the words "federal Medicaid changes" and "Medical Assistance changes" used to describe the same larger set of developments. The headlines can sound broader than the immediate change actually
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Sep 248 min read
What Is IHS in Minnesota? With Training, Without Training and Family Training Explained
If you are searching for disability services in Minnesota, you may see the term “IHS” on a support plan, service authorization, provider website or list of waiver services. The abbreviation stands for Individualized Home Supports. The name sounds straightforward, but families and even experienced professionals can still have questions about what IHS includes, how the service options differ and which option may fit a person’s needs. Those questions are especially timely. On Ju
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Sep 411 min read
How to Choose a 245D Provider in Minnesota: 12 Questions to Ask
Choosing a home and community-based services provider is not the same as choosing a routine vendor. A Minnesota 245D provider may enter a person’s home, support daily routines, respond to health and safety needs, help build skills, communicate with a multidisciplinary team and become a consistent part of the person’s life. The relationship can affect the person’s independence, stability, dignity and connection to the community. That is why the decision should involve more tha
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Sep 113 min read


Enriching Home Care Services: Person-Centered Disability Support in Minnesota
Finding the right support provider can change the direction of a person’s life. For an individual with a disability, mental health need, behavioral challenge or complex support need, dependable services can create more stability, confidence and connection to the community. For a parent, guardian or caregiver, the right support can bring relief and reassurance. For a case manager or county professional, a responsive provider can help turn a carefully developed support plan int
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Aug 2611 min read
How Home Care Can Give Family Caregivers Peace of Mind
Caring for a loved one can be incredibly rewarding, but it can also be challenging. Family caregivers often balance their loved one's needs with work, family responsibilities, errands, and their own personal well-being. Over time, trying to manage everything alone can become overwhelming. That is one reason professional home care can be such a valuable resource. You Don't Have to Do Everything Alone Family members often want to be there for their loved ones as much as possibl
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Aug 182 min read
5 Signs Your Loved One May Need Extra Help at Home
Recognizing that a parent, grandparent, or loved one may need additional support can be difficult. Families sometimes wait until a major incident occurs before considering home care, but there are often smaller signs that can indicate it is time to have a conversation. Here are five things to watch for. 1. Household Tasks Are Becoming Difficult Is the house becoming unusually cluttered? Are laundry, grocery shopping, dishes, or other regular chores being left undone? Difficul
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Aug 182 min read
The Benefits of Personalized In-Home Care for Seniors
As we get older, home can become more than just a place to live. It can be a place filled with memories, familiar routines, and the people and surroundings that bring comfort. For many older adults, being able to remain at home while receiving the right support is an important part of maintaining independence and quality of life. This is where personalized in-home care can make a meaningful difference. Care Designed Around the Individual Every person has different needs. Some
Hannah Andrusko-Starks
Aug 182 min read
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