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Provider Notice issued 05/11/2026
Implementation of New Provider Type Under the Medically Fragile and Technology Dependent Waiver to Allow Legally Responsible Individuals providing Certified Nursing Aide services to Waiver Participants Over 21 Years of Age
| To: |
All Medical Assistance Providers |
| Re: |
Implementation of New Provider Type Under the Medically Fragile and Technology Dependent Waiver to Allow Legally Responsible Individuals providing Certified Nursing Aide services to Waiver Participants Over 21 Years of Age |
| Date: | May 11, 2026 |
This notice informs home nursing agency providers providing in-home shift nursing through the home and community-based services (HCBS) Medically Fragile and Technology Dependent (MFTD) waiver that, effective May 20, 2026, legally responsible individuals (LRIs) who are certified as a Certified Nurse Aide (CNA) can provide CNA services and be paid to do so for MFTD waiver participants who are 21 years of age or older.
In December 2024, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services (HFS) received federal approval from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) via waiver amendment to the MFTD waiver to allow LRIs who are certified as CNAs to provide services to MFTD waiver participants 21 years of age and older.
Please note, individuals under the age of 21 who are eligible to receive in-home shift nursing under the Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnostic and Treatment (EPSDT) requirement of Medicaid under 42 U.S.C. 139d(r) are not yet eligible to receive CNA services via an LRI. The State Plan amendment to allow this service provision is awaiting CMS approval.
Questions regarding this notice may be directed to the Bureau of Waiver Operations and Management at HFS.HCBSwaiver@illinois.gov.
Laura Phelan, Administrator
Division of Medical Programs