The MSC+ waiver allows Minnesota to require seniors to enroll in managed care to receive Medicaid services. This includes people who are dually eligible for both Medicaid and Medicare and who have not opted to enroll in Minnesota Senior Health Options (MSHO). The MSC+ waiver operates in combination with Minnesota’s Elderly Waiver to enable the integration of community-based long-term care services into the managed care service delivery system. The waiver also provides federal authority to require certain populations eligible for Medical Assistance to enroll in managed care, including American Indians and children who are in foster care.
The current MSC+ waiver expires June 30, 2026. Review the MSC+ Waiver and CMS Approval letter (PDF) for more information.
DHS submitted a revised waiver amendment request to the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) on Nov. 30, 2023, to add Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) to MSC+. CMS approved the amendment on Feb. 27, 2024, with an effective date of June 1, 2024. DHS submitted an amendment to CMS on June 13, 2024, to change the effective date of CFSS from June 1, 2024, to Oct. 1, 2024. There were no additional substantive revisions to the content of the waiver request approved by CMS on Feb. 27, 2024. Refer to the MSC+ waiver amendment (PDF) for a copy of the amendment request, and MSC+ budget neutrality spreadsheet for budget neutrality information.
DHS is submitting a waiver amendment to CMS to discontinue the housing stabilization services benefit provided in MSC+, effective October 20, 2025. Refer to the MSC+ waiver amendment (PDF) for a copy of the amendment request and budget neutrality spreadsheet. Refer to the Housing Stabilization Services program termination FAQ webpage for more information.
Public comment process
Email comments to dhs.spa.comments@state.mn.us by September 20, 2025. DHS requests comments be submitted in Microsoft Word format or incorporated within the email text to support making comments available to people who use screen readers. If you would also like to provide a signed copy of a comment letter, you may submit a second copy in Adobe PDF format. Comments provided on paper or in an electronic format that cannot be converted for a screen reader may be reformatted to meet state accessibility requirements for posting. The original formatting and content will be kept as much as possible. For example, if graphics or tables are included, a description that can be read will be added. Comments received may be posted publicly.
Paper copies of the amendment are available by request. Email dhs.spa.comments@state.mn.us to request a copy be mailed, or to pick up a copy. Mail your request or comments via the U.S. Postal Service to:
Minnesota Department of Human Services
Federal Relations – Medicaid Waivers
P.O. Box 64967
St. Paul, MN 55164-0967
