Minnesota Department of Human ServicesDisability Services DivisionOne DSD People, Access and Culture
ViewUse the shared One DHS foundation with added DSD examples, scenarios, routes, and services.

One DSD

MnCHOICES assessment and access

Governs how people are assessed for and connected to long-term services and supports.

One DSD
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Equity entry points

  • First contact in the person's language
  • Accessibility of the assessment process
  • Person-centered practice and supported decision-making
  • Wait times and follow-up by community

Fictional worked example

A first contact that can lead somewhere

In this fictional assessment journey, the person asks for an interpreter and wants a trusted supporter included. Neither preference is inferred from their appearance or background.

  1. Ask how to connect

    Confirm the requested language, communication method and who the person wants involved.

    First-contact staff

    Can the person reach this conversation without first navigating an English-only message?

  2. Prepare the conversation

    Arrange the requested support, usable material and enough time for questions before the assessment conversation.

    Assessment team

    Which arrangements still need an owner and confirmation?

  3. Keep the handoff visible

    Explain the next step, how the person can reach someone and who will follow up on a wait.

    Named follow-up role

    How will the team learn whether this handoff worked?

Bring it into your work: Trace the first contact for a service you know. Mark the point where a language or access request becomes a confirmed arrangement, with someone responsible for following through.

Connected areas of work

Related situations