Health Care Homes Sustainability Roadmap: Background

The Health Care Homes (HCH) program is a cornerstone of Minnesota’s 2008 health reform legislation. By focusing on redesigning care delivery and meaningfully engaging patients and families, HCH has helped transform how primary care is delivered across the state—supporting millions of Minnesotans.

The term “Health Care Homes” reflects a critical shift in primary care. Instead of relying solely on a traditional medical model, the HCH model emphasizes whole-person care that integrates wellness, prevention, self-management, community resources, and strong partnerships.

Program Goals

The goals of the Health Care Homes program are to:

• Build a strong primary care foundation that provides coordinated, team-based, patient- and family-centered care for all Minnesotans.
• Strengthen care coordination and collaboration between primary care and community resources to support whole-person care, improve population health, and advance health equity.
• Improve the quality, experience, and value of care delivered across Minnesota.

Rule Amendment

In October 2022, the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH) amended the HCH rule to add two progression certification levels designed to advance health equity, address social drivers of health, and strengthen population health efforts. Clinics and organizations can now certify at the Foundational Level, Level 2, or Level 3.

This progression framework recognizes organizations that are deepening their primary care model to reduce disparities, improve value, and integrate more fully with behavioral health, community partners, social services, and public health systems. These changes support long-term sustainability and help clinics evolve with the needs of Minnesota communities.