Understanding Consultation Services in Minnesota’s PCA & CFSS Programs
How HealthMax Supports You Through the New Consultation Process
Minnesota has introduced an important new requirement for individuals participating in the PCA (Personal Care Assistance) and CFSS (Community First Services and Supports) programs: Consultation Services. This change was designed to provide every client with a neutral advocate—someone who can help you understand your options, your rights, and the decisions you can make within these care programs.
At HealthMax, we are excited to support you through this process. With decades of experience in the healthcare field, our goal is to answer your questions, empower your choices, and guide you confidently through your care journey.
What Is Consultation?
Consultation is a new program in Minnesota that ensures clients receive unbiased, accurate, and helpful information before beginning or updating their PCA or CFSS services. Your Consultation Provider is not your staffing agency and does not provide direct care. Instead, they serve as an independent and neutral resource.
This helps make sure you fully understand:
- Your care options
- How services can be structured
- What types of support are available
- Your role and responsibilities
- The agency’s role and responsibilities
The goal is simple: to empower you to make informed, confident choices about your care.
What Is the Service Delivery Plan?
The Service Delivery Plan is a collaborative document we complete together during your consultation. It serves as the foundation for how your care will be delivered.
This plan will:
- Outline your preferences for how services are provided
- Identify what supports you need day-to-day
- Clarify your goals, routines, and priorities
- Provide your chosen agency with essential information to deliver care the way you want it
Whether you’re brand new to PCA/CFSS or have been receiving services for years, the Service Delivery Plan ensures everything is clear, personalized, and aligned with your needs.
Our Role as Your Consultation Provider
At HealthMax, we serve as your neutral advisor. Our role is:
- To provide unbiased information
- To help you understand your choices
- To answer your questions honestly and clearly
- To support you anytime your situation or needs change
We do not provide direct care. This keeps our guidance impartial and centered on what is best for you.
Throughout your service period, we remain available to assist with:
- Updates to your Service Delivery Plan
- Questions about PCA or CFSS options
- Changes in your preferences or needs
- Understanding agency responsibilities and client rights
Your needs may evolve—and we’re here to ensure your care plan evolves with them.
Getting Ready for Your Consultation
To make the most of your upcoming intake meeting, we encourage you to review the Minnesota Department of Human Services resources on Community First Supports and Services (CFSS).
These materials can help you feel confident and prepared as we complete your Service Delivery Plan together. Reviewing them ahead of time allows you to think about your preferences, routine, and support needs.
We will also answer any questions you have during the consultation, so don’t worry if everything doesn’t make sense right away—we’re here to guide you.