“Understanding HCBS & IHS: What You Should Know About Home-Based Support in Minnesota”

Accessing quality care and support in your own home can make a world of difference. For many families and individuals in Minnesota, Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) and Individualized Home Supports (IHS, formerly ILS) provide essential aid to keep independence, dignity, and comfort close to home. In this post, we’ll break down what these services are, who qualifies, how to get started, and tips for making the most of the support you receive.

What Are HCBS and IHS?

• HCBS (Home and Community-Based Services)These are support services delivered in home or community settings rather than in institutions. HCBS helps individuals live more independently while receiving needed care and assistance.

• IHS / ILS (Individualized Home Supports / Independent Living Skills)IHS is a key subset of HCBS. It emphasizes training, coaching, and support to help with daily living skills, social engagement, community participation, and more.

Examples of services under IHS / HCBS include:

• Personal care / homemaking

• Respite care

• 24-hour emergency assistance

• In-home support (with or without training)

• Night supervision

• Employment support services

Who Qualifies for These Services?

Eligibility usually depends on:

1. Assessment of needs — your functional abilities, medical or mental health needs, or disability status

2. Waiver programs or Medicaid waivers — e.g., CADI, BI, DD, EW in Minnesota

3. Approval through county or state agencies — often yields a care plan and provider choice

If you're unsure whether you qualify, your local county human services office or case manager can help you understand available options.

How to Get Started

1. Contact your county human services / case manager They perform assessments, determine eligibility, and guide you through the waiver process.

2. Choose a provider Once approved, you can select a provider (like Homestay Services) for delivering your care plan. Our team offers services across the Twin Cities and surrounding Minnesota areas.

3. Develop a care plan This is customized to your needs — how much in-home support, training, respite, etc.

4. Begin receiving services You’ll get services based on the plan, and providers will monitor, report, and adjust as needed.

Tips for Maximizing Your Support

• Be clear & vocal about goals Let providers know what you want to accomplish: more independence in daily tasks, improving social engagement, managing medications, etc.

• Track progress regularly Use journals or checklists to monitor what’s working and what needs adjustment.

• Stay involved You can (and should) provide feedback to your staff and provider. Good communication helps optimize your services.

• Leverage additional resources Support groups, nonprofits, community centers, and local agencies often have complementary programs to HCBS.

• Plan for transitions If your needs change (e.g. higher care needs or lower needs), talk to your case manager about adjusting your service level.

Why Choosing the Right Provider Matters

A provider’s approach, staff quality, culture, and flexibility all make a difference. Here’s what to look for:

• Providers with experience and training in HCBS / IHS

• Transparent communication and responsiveness

• Ability to adapt services as needs change

• Strong safety protocols, background checks, and oversight

• A person-centered vs one-size-fits-all approach

At Homestay Services, for example, we emphasize compassion, individualized planning, and a long-term focus on independence and dignity.

HCBS and IHS offer a powerful way for individuals to receive vital support while staying connected to their homes and communities. With the right provider, clear goals, and active involvement, the quality of care and quality of life can both improve.

If you’re curious whether you or a loved one qualifies, or want help navigating the process, reach out — we’re here to help.

Call us today at (651)-321-4949 or Email Homestayservicesllc@gmail.com to get started.