DADS issued Information Letter No. 14-24: Reassessment Process in Preparation of STAR+PLUS Expansion in Rural Service Areas
The Health and Human Services Commission (HHSC) is expanding the STAR+PLUS Medicaid managed care program to the existing Medicaid Rural Service Areas (Medicaid RSAs) including West, Central, and Northeast Texas. With this expansion, most individuals who are older or who have a disability will get their basic health services (acute care), and long-term services and supports (LTSS) through a STAR+PLUS managed care organization (MCO). In the fall of 2013, HHSC began conducting statewide Medicaid Managed Care Initiative information sessions to inform the targeted providers and individuals of this expansion.
This letter is to advise the home and community support services agencies (HCSSAs) serving individuals in the Community Based Alternatives (CBA) Program in the counties listed on page two that DADS case managers will be renewing Individual Service Plans (ISPs) due in July, August and September based on the current service levels. This will negate the need for HCSSAs to reassess individuals’ whose plans expire in July, August or September.
CBA ISP changes must be received by the Department of Aging and Disability Services (DADS) case managers by August 19, 2014, in order to be reviewed for approval prior to STAR+PLUS expansion.
In addition, HCSSAs will not be required to conduct semi-annual nursing assessments due in June, July or August for individuals receiving CBA services. HCSSAs are urged to refrain from processing any reassessments with ISP expiration dates on or after October 1, 2014. HCSSAs will no longer have that responsibility.