HCBS Transition Plan

In March 2014, the Center for Medicaid and Medicare Services (CMS) published the final rule regarding changes to Home and Community Based Waiver Services (HCBS Waiver) which defines a home and community based setting and person-centered planning requirements in Medicaid HCBS Waiver programs. The purpose of this regulation is to ensure that individuals receive Medicaid HCBS in settings that are integrated in and support full access to the greater community. This includes opportunities to seek employment and work in competitive and integrated settings, engage in community life, control personal resources, and receive services in the community to the same degree as individuals who do not receive Home and Community Based Services.

The rule requires demonstration as to how state's HCBS Waiver programs comply with the new federal HCBS rules. Missouri’s draft transition plan incorporates all HCBS Waivers administered by Department of Health and Senior Services (DHSS), Department of Mental Health (DMH), and Department of Social Services (DSS). The purpose of Missouri’s draft Transition Plan is to ensure that individuals receiving HCBS Waiver services have the same degree of access and choice as individuals not receiving Medicaid HCBS Waiver services.