Contracted case management provider details outcomes and readiness for DHS audit

Pinnacle Services presented an operational update to the county on its contracted case management work, with Jill Taylor and Al Burton describing outcomes, system upgrades and compliance preparations.

Taylor said Pinnacle serves approximately 350 Scott County individuals and provided about 14,000 service hours in 2025. The agency reported investments in a new case management platform (PlanStreet) and an employee mentorship program launched in 2025 to improve retention and on‑the‑job training.

Pinnacle staff recounted client success stories — resolving payroll issues for a family using the client‑directed CDCS option, stabilizing housing for a client with complex medical needs, and restoring an elderly client’s home to meet inspection standards. They said those case‑level interventions stem from sustained casework and stronger documentation made possible by upgraded systems.

The presenter emphasized financial pressures: required training hours, unbillable administrative tasks, and legislative changes (including Minnesota’s paid‑leave law) factor into budget planning. Pinnacle said closer county collaboration, SharePoint access, and an engaged county liaison (Rachel) have allowed Pinnacle case managers more timely access to approvals and increased delegated authority for service authorizations.

Pinnacle said it is preparing for an upcoming DHS audit (January 2027) and is using internal audits, documentation standards and PlanStreet dashboards to ensure compliance.

The presentation was informational; board members did not take formal action during this item.