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Community Alternative Care Waiver

The Community Alternative Care (CAC) Waiver provides funding for home and community-based services for children and adults who are chronically ill. The CAC Waiver is designed to serve persons with disabilities who would otherwise require the level of care provided in a hospital.

CAC Waiver services may be provided in a person’s own home, in his/her biological or adoptive family’s home, in a relative’s home (e.g. sibling, aunt, grandparent etc.), in a family foster care home or corporate foster care home. If married, a person may receive CAC Waiver services while living at home with his or her spouse.

Who is eligible for the CAC Waiver?

Eligibility for the CAC Waiver is determined through a screening process. To be eligible for the CAC Waiver, a person must meet all these criteria:

• Be certified as disabled by the Social Security Administration or the State Medical Review Team

• Be eligible for Medical Assistance

• Be under the age of 65 years when the waiver is opened

• Choose care in the community instead of a hospital

• Have a Community Support Plan, which includes assurances of the health and safety for the person

• Require the level of care provided in a hospital

What else is important for participation in the CAC Waiver?

Once eligibility is determined for participation in the CAC Waiver, certain questions must be asked about services including:

• Are the services necessary to ensure the recipient’s health, welfare and safety?

• Have all options been assessed and does this option meet the individual desires, needs and preferences of the person?

• Is the cost of the service considered reasonable and customary?

• Is the service covered by any other funding source, for example, Medical Assistance state plan services, private health care coverage, Medicare, education or Vocational Rehabilitation Service?

In addition to services covered by Medical Assistance, what services are available through the CAC Waiver?

• Case management and case management aide services

• Consumer directed community supports (CDCS)

• Environmental accessibility adaptations

• Extended home care services

• Family counseling and training

• Foster care

• Home delivered meals

• Homemaker

• Respite care

• Specialized supplies and equipment

• Transportation

• Transitional services

How can persons apply for the CAC Waiver?

You can apply for the CAC Waiver at your local county social service agency. The DHS Disability Services Division administers the CAC Waiver. For more information, contact your local county agency (PDF).

Let us know if you are unable to find information about Disability Services Division programs and services. E-mail DHS.Dsdtahelp@state.mn.us.

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