Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) were developed to offer support to individuals in community settings, as an alternative to institutional care. HCBS are long-term services & supports provided in home and community-based settings, as recognized under the federal Medicaid (Medi-Cal) Program. These services can be a combination of standard medical services and non-medical services. Standard services can include, but are not limited to, case management (i.e. supports and service coordination), homemaker, home health aide, personal care, adult day health services, habilitation (both day and residential), and respite care. States can also propose “other” types of services that may assist in diverting and/or transitioning individuals from institutional settings into their homes and community.

In 2014, new federal rules were released by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), requiring homes and programs where HCBS are delivered to meet new criteria. This is referred to as The HCBS Settings Rule. More information can be found under the Frequently Asked Questions section found above.

Last modified: December 23, 2025