MnCHOICES Assessment
What is the MnCHOICES Assessment?
Washington County helps people of all ages and abilities find supports to live and work in their communities, be with people important to them, and to live their best lives. The MnCHOICES Assessment is an online application used by all counties in Minnesota to determine eligibility for long-term services and supports (LTSS) for individuals in their homes and in the community.
The MnCHOICES Assessment is completed by a certified assessor using a person-centered approach—meaning, you share what is important to you, what your goals are, and what areas you need support with. This information is used to help determine your eligibility for programs and services and to develop a support plan personalized to you. Anyone living in Minnesota can request a MnCHOICES assessment.
Why having the MnCHOICES Assessment matters
The MnCHOICES Assessment is the first step to get long-term care and support services through Washington County. It is required to determine eligibility for:
- Community First Services and Supports (formerly known as Personal Care Assistance (PCA)).
- Intellectual and Development Disability services (also known as Rule 185 Case Management).
- Home and community-based service waivers (DHS website) based on age:
| Over 65 years old | Under 65 years old |
|---|---|
| Alternative Care | Brain Injury Waiver |
| Elderly Waiver | Community Access for Disability Inclusion Waiver |
| Community Alternative Care Waiver |
Even if you don't know what programs are available, Washington County social workers and certified assessors will help you. The certified assessor will also discuss other resources that may be helpful, even if you are not eligible for public programs.
How to get started
To request your free assessment, submit an online request form, or call 651-430-6422 (select option 1).
Important: If you are requesting a MnCHOICES Assessment to fund assisted living services, please contact our intake social workers to request an assessment before you run out of funds.
- Think about what is important to you, your goals and hopes, and what you need help with. This could include things like work, where you live, and who you want to support you.
- Make a list of your health care providers, diagnoses, and medications.
- If you haven't already, apply for Medical Assistance.
Some programs also require a Disability Certification (SSA website).
While it is not required to complete these steps, doing so can help the process go more quickly.
A certified assessor will call you to schedule the MnCHOICES Assessment.
- The assessment will take place in your home or another location of your choice.
- Family, friends, or other supports are welcome to join you during the assessment.
- The assessment may take about two hours to complete. The assessor will arrange for an interpreter if you would like one.
- Please note, there will be time after the assessment visit to complete processing to determine eligibility and discuss potential next steps.
After the MnCHOICES assessment, a certified assessor will contact you to let you know which programs you may be eligible for and explain next steps in the process. The assessor will answer any questions you may have.
- You may be eligible for services based on your assessment and eligibility for Medical Assistance (MA). Some waiver programs require an approval process, and the assessor will help you with the process.
- If you are not eligible for waiver, state-plan services, or Medical Assistance, the certified assessor will discuss other services and resources available.
- If you qualify for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) services, you can request the Developmental Disabilities (DD) Waiver through your case manager.
If you are eligible to receive waiver services, the assessor will open the waiver and request a waiver case manager. Each program and waiver offers different service options. Once assigned, your case manager will contact you to schedule a home visit and discuss the support options available to you.
You will be required to follow your program's guidelines, which usually include two required home visits during the service year. A MnCHOICES reassessment is required on an annual basis to determine ongoing eligibility. You will be contacted by a scheduler to set up future visits. If you don't complete an annual reassessment, your services may be delayed or end.