Colorado’s Department of Health Care Policy and Financing (HCPF) is making significant updates to its Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) system. These changes are designed to create a more person-centered approach for individuals seeking or receiving LTSS. A key component of this update involves new processes for eligibility determinations, needs assessments, and support planning, all of which will be facilitated by a vital Care Plan Assessment Tool.
These updated processes prioritize individual needs and choices, aiming to enhance self-direction and improve service coordination for both adults and children with disabilities. To support these advancements, HCPF is launching a new case management IT solution to automate and streamline these processes. You can find more information about this innovative IT solution on the Care and Case Management System web page.
A significant shift in this LTSS update is the decommissioning of the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) assessment, effective July 1, 2025. This change is necessary because the current version of the SIS assessment used in Colorado will no longer be available. Previously, the SIS assessment was crucial for determining Support Levels for Day and Residential Habilitation Services within the HCBS-DD and SLS waivers. It also established Service Plan Authorization Limits (SPALs) for other SLS waiver services.
With the introduction of the Community First Choice (CFC) program, SPALs will no longer be required for SLS waiver services. However, the decommissioning of the SIS necessitates a new method for identifying appropriate Support Levels for individuals, particularly new enrollees needing Day and Residential Habilitation Services in the SLS and DD waivers. The Support Level is a critical factor in determining provider rates for these essential services. This is where the implementation of a robust care plan assessment tool becomes essential to ensure fair and accurate support level determination.
Stay informed about the decommissioning of the SIS and further updates by regularly checking this page and subscribing to the OCL Newsletter. You can access the OCL Newsletter Archive or Sign up here to receive the latest news directly.
