As the July 1, 2025, implementation of Colorado’s Community First Choice (CFC) option approaches, the landscape of Medicaid-funded home and community-based services is set for a significant transformation. At Frisco, we understand the importance of staying ahead of these changes to ensure seamless support for both our agency partners and the individuals they serve.
Understanding the CFC Shift and Community Options
Under 1915(k) of the Social Security Act, the CFC initiative aims to provide more flexibility and control to Health First Colorado (Medicaid) members requiring long-term care. This program integrates several key services previously managed under Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waivers, including:
- Personal Care: With options like Consumer Directed Attendant Support Services (CDASS) and In-Home Support Services (IHSS).
- Homemaker Services: Also available through CDASS and IHSS.
- Health Maintenance Activities: Expanding member-directed skilled care.
- Personal Emergency Response Systems (PERS) and Medication Reminders.
- Transition Setup and Home Delivered Meals.
- Remote Supports and Remote Supports Technology.
Did you know?
By July 1, services transitioning from HCBS waivers to CFC will still allow individuals to access any remaining services through their waivers. CFC doesn’t prevent the use of other HCBS or State Plan services, including 1915(c) waivers, as long as there’s no duplication.
A critical component of CFC is the emphasis on self-directed care, allowing members to manage their budgets, select caregivers, and oversee training. This shift empowers individuals to take a more active role in their care management, aligning with the goals of increased community services.
Eligibility and Access
Eligibility for CFC is broad, encompassing individuals on HCBS waivers and those meeting an institutional level of care. For those on existing waivers, the transition will occur during their Continued Stay Review (CSR). Individuals not currently on waivers can apply directly through their local Case Management Agency starting July 1, 2025.
Frisco’s Preparedness- The Next Step
In anticipation of these changes, Frisco is actively working to adapt its platform to align with the new CFC requirements. This includes:
- Enhancing our tools to support self-directed care models, focusing on budget management, caregiver selection, and payroll processing.
- Strengthening our Medicaid billing and compliance automation features to ensure agencies can navigate the new reimbursement structures effectively.
- We are expanding our remote care and digital support functionalities to accommodate services like Remote Support, Medication Reminders, and Personal Emergency Response (PERS).
- Adapting to the new Task Worksheet: Direct Care Services Calculator, and the changes the Wellness Education Benefit (WEB) will bring.
We recognize the importance of providing resources and support to our partners during this transition. Our goal is to ensure that our platform continues to facilitate efficient and compliant care management, regardless of the evolving regulatory landscape.
Looking Ahead
The implementation of CFC represents a significant opportunity to improve the quality of care for Medicaid recipients in Colorado. Frisco is committed to being a reliable partner in this transition, providing the tools and support necessary to navigate these changes successfully.
We encourage our users and partners to stay informed about CFC and to reach out to us with any questions or concerns. As we move closer to the implementation date, we will continue to provide updates and resources to ensure a smooth transition.
Connect With Us
To Get More Such Updates And Get Your Caregiving Process Simplified. Book a demo today!