Personal Care Assistance (PCA)
Supporting independence with compassion and care.
PCA Services
Empowering Independence Through Compassionate Support
At BrightSide Care, our Personal Care Assistance (PCA) services are designed to help individuals live safely, comfortably, and independently in their own homes and communities.
We provide hands-on, person-centered support for people who need help with daily living activities, health-related tasks, or behavior-related needs due to illness, disability, or chronic condition.
Our trained and compassionate staff ensure that every client receives care that is respectful, reliable, and aligned with Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) standards.
About PCA
What Is PCA?
Personal Care Assistance (PCA) is a Medical Assistance (MA) program under the Minnesota Department of Human Services (DHS) that provides individualized assistance to people with disabilities, mental health conditions, or chronic illnesses who need help with daily activities.
PCA services help individuals maintain independence and live at home instead of in a facility.
BrightSide Care’s PCA program is based on the principles of dignity, independence, and person-centered care.
Who Is Eligible for PCA Services?
You may qualify for PCA services if you:
- Are eligible for Medical Assistance (MA) in Minnesota.
- Have completed a MnCHOICES assessment that identifies a need for assistance with ADLs, behaviors, or health-related tasks.
- Require ongoing support to safely live at home or in the community.
- Can direct your own care or have a responsible party (parent, guardian, or representative) to help manage your services.
PCA services are available to children, adults, and seniors who meet DHS criteria.
Services Include
What PCA Services Include
Our PCA services are tailored to meet the needs outlined in your care plan and assessment. They may include:
Activities of Daily Living (ADLs)
Assistance with essential daily tasks such as:
- Dressing and grooming
- Bathing and personal hygiene
- Eating and meal assistance
- Mobility and transfers
- Positioning and movement
- Toileting and continence care
Health-Related Functions
Help with tasks delegated or supervised by a nurse or qualified professional (QP), including:
- Medication reminders or administration under nurse delegation
- Range of motion or exercise assistance
- Simple wound care
- Seizure monitoring or other delegated tasks approved in the care plan
Observation and Redirection
For individuals with behavioral or cognitive challenges, PCAs provide:
- Observation and monitoring for safety
- Redirection and cues for daily tasks
- Assistance to remain focused, calm, and engaged
Support for Independence
PCA services can also include:
- Encouragement and reminders to complete self-care tasks
- Teaching and promoting independence
- Building skills that enhance confidence and participation in community life
Service Options
PCA Service Options
Minnesota offers two main PCA service options. BrightSide Care provides both so you can choose the level of control and responsibility that fits your needs.
Traditional PCA (Agency-Managed)
Under the Traditional PCA option, BrightSide Care is the PCA provider agency.
We manage all employment responsibilities, including hiring, training, payroll, scheduling, and compliance — so you can focus on living your life.
Our responsibilities include:
- Recruiting and training PCAs
- Conducting background checks and maintaining staff records
- Providing ongoing supervision by a Qualified Professional (QP)
- Ensuring accurate documentation, timekeeping, and billing
- Handling all DHS compliance and reporting
This option is ideal for individuals or families who want reliable, professional support without needing to manage the administrative side of care.
PCA Choice Option
Under the PCA Choice model, you or your responsible party have greater control over your PCA services.
You recruit, hire, train, and schedule your own PCA workers, while BrightSide Care serves as your fiscal and administrative agency.
We handle:
- Payroll and tax processing
- Background checks
- Employment paperwork and reporting to DHS
- Compliance oversight and QP supervision
Meanwhile, you have the freedom to:
- Choose and manage your own PCAs
- Decide their schedule and duties within your care plan
- Direct your daily services and training
This model is perfect for individuals who want more control over who provides their care but still need administrative and compliance support from a trusted agency.
Quality and Compliance
Our Commitment to Quality and Compliance
At BrightSide Care, we take compliance seriously.
We follow Minnesota Statutes §256B.0659 and all DHS PCA regulations to ensure your services are ethical, transparent, and properly documented.
We maintain clear policies on:
- Service documentation and timesheets
- Fraud prevention and reporting
- Grievances and complaints
- Service suspension or termination procedures
Our team works closely with clients, families, and case managers to ensure every aspect of your PCA services meets the highest quality standards.
Why Choose BrightSide Care for PCA Services
- Compassionate, Trained Caregivers – All PCAs are background-checked, trained, and supervised.
- DHS-Compliant Services – We strictly follow all state requirements and QP oversight standards.
- Flexible Options – Choose between Traditional PCA and PCA Choice.
- Person-Centered Planning – Your services are designed around your needs and goals.
- Transparent Communication – We keep you informed every step of the way.
- Commitment to Dignity and Independence – We believe care should empower, not restrict.
Process
How to Get Started
Request an Assessment
Contact your county, tribal agency, or health plan to request a MnCHOICES assessment to determine your eligibility for PCA services.
01Receive Your Authorization
DHS will review your assessment and determine how many PCA hours you are eligible to receive.
02Choose BrightSide Care
Select BrightSide Care as your PCA provider — under either the Traditional or PCA Choice model.
03Develop Your Care Plan
Our Qualified Professional will work with you (and your responsible party, if applicable) to create a personalized care plan.
04Begin Services
We’ll match you with trained, compassionate staff and begin services promptly once your plan is approved.
05Our Promise to You
At BrightSide Care, our mission is to inspire independence and elevate lives through compassionate, person-centered support.
We’re more than a care agency — we’re your partner in independence, here to help you live each day with dignity, comfort, and confidence.
📞 Phone: 651-374-8751 | 📧 Email: info@brightsidecare.com