News
Category: State News
Welcome to the State News category. The following news items will keep you informed about state legislation, state-level advocacy and other information about aging services in Minnesota.
Housing Support Rate Increases July 1
On May 12, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
The annual re-calculation of the Housing Support, formerly Group Residential Housing (GRH), rate that covers rent and raw food for eligible participants has resulted in an increase of $12 per month. The new rate of $934 will be effective July 1, 2020 - June 30, 2021.
Nursing Homes: COVID-19 Communicative Technology Grants
On May 5, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recently announced that, with State approval, Medicaid-certified nursing facilities are eligible to receive up to $3,000 to purchase communication technology that will enable residents to conduct virtual visits with family and friends and to participate in telehealth visits.
State Budget Update Shows Huge Deficit Due to COVID-19 Impact
On May 5, 2020 by Jeff Bostic
The State of Minnesota yesterday released an unusual budget update to measure the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the state budget. As anticipated, the economic slowdown tied to the COVID-19 response is projected to have an enormous impact with the state now anticipating a deficit of $2.4 billion for the biennium.
Senator Housley Calls for Universal Testing in Long-Term Care
On April 28, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
Senator Karin Housley, chair of the Minnesota Senate Family Care and Aging Committee, called on Governor Tim Walz’s administration to immediately implement guidelines for widespread testing at the state’s long-term care facilities.
MDH Conducting Focused Surveys in HWS/Comprehensive Home Care
On April 28, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) is conducting focused infection control surveys in Housing with Services (HWS)/Comprehensive Home Care communities.
PPE: What PPE to Use When – New MDH Chart
On April 28, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
Knowing what PPE to use continues to be one of the most frequently asked questions we hear from members. A new chart from MDH brings clarity to this hot topic.
DHS Posts New COVID-19 Reimbursement Form & FAQ
On April 21, 2020 by Jeff Bostic
The Minnesota Department of Human Services has posted an updated form and FAQ about reimbursement for COVID-19 related costs on the Nursing Facility Provider Portal.
MDH Announces Moratorium Project Approvals
On April 21, 2020 by Jeff Bostic
The Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) last week announced seven nursing homes have been approved for moratorium exceptions construction projects in the latest round of available funding. Ten of the eleven submissions, and six of the seven selected, were LeadingAge Minnesota members so we are excited to see their interest in improving the environment for the people they serve.
DHS Issues COVID-19 Guidance for EW Customized Living
On April 21, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
In a move to support services and staffing in response to COVID-19, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) issued guidance to lead agencies regarding EW customized living rate protocols.
MDH Posts COVID-19 Webinar Login Information for Meetings through June
On April 21, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
All providers are encouraged to attend the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) weekly COVID-19 webinar for Long-Term Care. MDH epidemiologists and clinicians will provide up-to-date information and guidance, answer questions, and address concerns.
A Message from the Ombudsman for Long-Term Care
On April 14, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
As you are aware, all Ombudsmen staff currently provide a virtual presence to do their part during this time of crisis. Proactive outreach to residents is accepted and supported at the Ombudsmen federal level and programs across the country are pursuing this to fulfill our mandate that residents have regular and timely access to the services provided through the Ombudsman program. This includes support to Resident/Family Councils.
Minnesota Pipeline Dual Training Grants Now Available
On April 14, 2020 by Jenna Kellerman
Applications for the Dual Training Grant Program are being accepted through May 8. Approximately $2.7 million is available to support the related instruction component of dual-training programs in your organization.
Live Well at Home Grant Application Deadline Extended
On April 14, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has extended the deadline to apply for a Live Well at Home Grant to Friday May 15.
DHS Updates Information on 15% Housing Support Add On
On April 14, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
In their newly launched COVID-19 Housing webpage, the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) is providing additional information about the 15% add on to Housing Support (GRH).
Pre-Admission Screening is Still Required in Minnesota
On April 8, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
The Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) has confirmed that preadmission screening (PAS) is still required in Minnesota.
MN Senate COVID-19 Response Working Group Focuses on Long-Term Care
On April 8, 2020 by Libbie Chapuran
The Minnesota Senate COVID-19 Response Working Group met yesterday, focusing their work on the impact on the long-term care community. LeadingAge Minnesota member Deb Barnes, Executive Director at Lakeview Methodist Health Care, began the hearing with testimony about the impact of COVID-19 in long-term care settings.
MDH Publishes Names of Congregate Settings with Positive COVID-19
On April 8, 2020 by Jodi Boyne
As we shared with you last week, the Minnesota Department of Health began publishing the names of congregate care settings that have at least one resident, staff or contractor who is positive COVID-19. MDH will continue to update this list on an ongoing basis. Here are a few important items to know:
MDH Releases New Guidance on Electronic Monitoring
On April 8, 2020 by Jonathan Lips
The Minnesota Department of Health has released new guidance to help congregate settings accommodate requests to install a camera during visitor restrictions due to COVID-19 and the Stay at Home Executive Order.
Governor Signs $330 Million Bill to Respond to COVID-19
On April 1, 2020 by Libbie Chapuran
Governor Tim has signed into law an additional $330 million package of initiatives to combat the health and economic challenges due to the COVID-19 crisis. The bill includes, amongst other provisions:
MDH Cancels March 26 Assisted Living Licensure Advisory Committee Meeting
On March 25, 2020 by Bobbie Guidry
Due to COVID-19, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) has cancelled the Assisted Living Licensure Rules Advisory Committee meeting scheduled for March 26.