What is the Home & Community-Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule?
The HCBS Final Rule is the Federal mandate from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) that requires that all federally funded services provided to people with developmental disabilities, shall respect individual choice, promote independence, and increase access to community inclusion.
Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) were developed to offer support to individuals in community settings, as an alternative to institutional care. In 2014, new federal rules were released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, requiring homes and programs where HCBS are delivered to meet new criteria. The Department of Developmental Services, regional centers, and community partners are working to implement the requirements for home and community-based settings in accordance with this Final Rule.
Everyone who receives, or provides, HCBS services may be affected by the CMS Final Rule. Activities are happening now to help California meet these new requirements.