For people and families navigating unfamiliar service language
Which HCBS terms should we clarify during planning?
Ask what each term means for the decision in front of you. A service name describes an option; an assessment, an authorization and a provider’s staffing confirmation answer different questions. Write down the term, the explanation and who can confirm the next step rather than trying to memorize every acronym.
Start with the service names
HCBS means home and community-based services. In this library, IHS means individualized home supports. Minnesota distinguishes IHS without training, with training and with family training. Ask the case manager which option is being discussed and why it fits the person’s needs.
Ask what has actually been decided
“Assessment complete,” “referral received” and “start date confirmed” are not interchangeable messages. When you hear a status, ask what it establishes and what still needs to happen. For example, a provider receiving a form can acknowledge it before reviewing the proposed schedule.
Similarly, ask what “available” means. It might refer to a service the organization offers, willingness to review a referral, or a specific staffed arrangement. Record the precise answer instead of carrying an ambiguous word into the next conversation.
Keep a personal glossary of decisions
Use the worksheet for the few terms that are unclear in your own situation. Request explanations without acronyms and note who can clarify the remaining question. If a document uses a different name for something you discussed, ask the responsible team whether it means the same thing.
For assessment questions, use Minnesota’s MnCHOICES information and the appropriate local contact. This short guide is not a complete program glossary or an eligibility determination.
My service-language question sheet
Download this editable worksheet, add your notes, and bring it to the relevant planning conversation. Leave unknown details blank and identify who can confirm them.
Download worksheet (.txt)- Term or phrase
- What exact word, acronym or status did you hear or read?
- Plain-language meaning
- How did the responsible person explain it?
- Decision it affects
- What does the explanation mean for your current choice or next step?
- What remains open
- What has not yet been assessed, authorized or confirmed?
- Clarifying contact
- Who can answer the remaining question, and where is the current information?
An optional discussion tool, not an official assessment, authorization, service plan, or emergency plan. Keep completed copies private and share through an agreed channel.
Illustrative planning example
A family hears that a referral is “accepted.” They ask whether that means the information was received or a service start is confirmed. Their notes use the specific answer so other family members do not assume visits are scheduled.
This example is invented to explain the worksheet; it is not a client story or a promised outcome.
Your next step
Bring your unanswered terms to the case manager or provider. Ask for the current decision and next step in language the person can use.
For a conversation with Clemens Health about your Twin Cities location, call (651) 354-1196 or send a referral. Service fit, authorization, and staffing need to be confirmed.
Minnesota resources
State resources explain program rules. The worksheet and examples are Clemens Health planning aids. Links were checked October 5, 2026; follow the current state guidance for eligibility and service questions.