Personal Care Assistant
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Facts About PCA Services
The State of Minnesota offers programs to help older adults and individuals with disabilities stay in their communities rather than moving to facilities. One such program is the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Program, administered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. Established in 1978, the program expanded the state’s Medical Assistance to include personal home assistance.
PCA Services provide non-medical, health-related support and assistance with daily activities, enabling individuals to live independently at home and in their communities.
Available to individuals of all ages with special healthcare needs, PCA services are covered under Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare. They can be accessed through fee-for-service programs, HCBS waivers, or prepaid health plans (e.g., UCare).
How PCA Services Help Loved Ones
Supports Independence and Safety: Helps loved ones live independently at home with assistance in daily tasks and fall prevention.
Eases Family Burden: Relieves caregivers by providing professional, personalized support tailored to individual needs.
Affordable and Accessible: Covered under Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare, making care both accessible and cost-effective.
What Are the Home Care Options Under the PCA Program?
PCA services provide non-medical assistance with daily activities such as bathing, dressing, grooming, and meal preparation, helping individuals live independently at home.
Individuals of all ages with special healthcare needs who are eligible for Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare can receive PCA services. An assessment is required to determine eligibility.
To apply for PCA services, contact the Minnesota Department of Human Services or a local provider for an assessment. Based on the results, a personalized care plan will be developed.
PCA services are covered by Medical Assistance or MinnesotaCare, reducing the cost for eligible individuals. Coverage may vary depending on the program used.
While PCA services primarily support individuals in their homes, they may also assist with community activities and transportation to help individuals remain engaged in their local community.
Eligibility Requirements for PCA Services
- Ability to make decisions about your care or have a designated decision-maker.
- Completion of a PCA assessment by a Public Health Nurse (PHN).
- Need for “constant supervision” or “hands-on assistance” with at least one Activity of Daily Living (ADL) or Level 1 Behavior.
What is a PCA Assessment?
A Public Health Nurse (PHN) evaluates your needs to determine PCA eligibility.
- Requirements: Dependence on at least one ADL or Level 1 behavior.
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Assistance Levels:
- More help for critical ADLs (eating, transfers, mobility, toileting).
- Less help for non-critical ADLs (grooming, dressing, bathing, positioning).
Take our PCA Self-Assessment to see if you qualify!