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The purpose of this e-Memo is to provide you with information regarding recent and upcoming changes to the assessment processes for substance use disorder (SUD) treatment services.
The “Rule 25” process has been the method for eligible people to access publicly paid SUD treatment services in Minnesota. This has been the only process for assessing eligibility for SUD services through counties, Tribes, and Managed Care Organizations (MCOs). This process has been in place since the late 1980s.
In an effort to streamline this process, create improved access to services, have a wider network and array of services, and come into compliance with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) directives, the DHS Behavioral Health Division began a process of transitioning from this historical method to a “direct access model.” This model allows people a choice in provider, as well as allowing them to go directly to a provider in order to receive a “comprehensive assessment.”
To make the transition from when direct access begins until the Rule 25 process closes out on June 30, 2022, Minnesota will have a “parallel process.” During that period, a person can either follow the traditional Rule 25 process or go directly to a provider for an assessment and treatment.
CMS recently approved DHS’ renewal waiver application for the Consolidated Chemical Dependency Treatment Fund (CCDTF) program. This authority allows county and tribal workers to continue to authorize treatment and for people to access treatment through Rule 25. The effective dates of this waiver are July 1, 2020, to June 30, 2022.
Meanwhile, direct access and the parallel process will begin no later than October 1, 2020. Initially it was hoped this would begin on July 1, 2020, but it was delayed as a result of DHS needing to prioritize modifications to its programs in response to the COVID19 pandemic.
Effective July 1, 2022, comprehensive assessments will replace the Rule 25 assessments, and the Rule 25 process will no longer be available. Counties and Tribes will no longer be able to authorize treatment services using this process as of July 1, 2022.
Statutory changes were made this legislative session to fully implement the transition to direct access, and to allow the parallel process of Rule 25 or direct access for two years. HF 4556, article 3, sections 3, 4, and 13b allow for implementation of the transition to direct access and repeal the “Rule 25” assessment rules related to chemical dependency care for public assistance recipients (MN Rules, parts 9530.6600-9530.6655) effective July 1, 2022.
Please email Neerja Singh at neerja.singh@state.mn.us with any questions.
We appreciate your partnership and commitment to continue to provide high quality treatment services to people of Minnesota.
About the Behavioral Health e-Memo
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For more information about Behavioral Health Services in Minnesota, visit:
Children’s mental health / Adult mental health / Substance use disorder / Resources for partners and providers
For more information about this e-Memo please feel free to contact us at youropinionmatters.dhs@state.mn.us
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