In Iowa, there are seven programs called Home-and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waivers. These waivers help people stay in their own homes or communities instead of going to a medical institution.
These programs also provide funding and personalized support for individuals who qualify, allowing them to receive the care they need while remaining in a familiar environment.
To learn more about the HCBS Waiver Program, please read the HCBS Waiver Program brochure, "Are Home- and Community-Based Services Right for You?"
AIDS/HIV Waiver Information Packet
Brain Injury Waiver Information Packet
Children's Mental Health Waiver Information Packet
Elderly Waiver Information Packet
HD Waiver Information Packet
Intellectual Disability Information Packet
Physical Disability Waiver Information Packet
Persons wishing to enroll for services should contact the local HHS offices in the county where the enrollee resides.
Finding a Provider
See the HHS website to search for available service providers, including waiver, Medicaid and mental health providers as well as others.
The state has been divided into HCBS Specialists Regions, with each region assigned a HCBS Specialist to provide technical assistance and quality oversight to the counties included in that HCBS region.
Program oversight is provided by program managers from the Bureau of Medical and Long-Term Services and Supports.
Access each contact list to view the names and contact information.
Iowa Medicaid
Des Moines, Iowa 50315
515-256-4615 (local from Des Moines metro area)
Department of Elder Affairs
Temporary rental assistance is available for people who receive services through Medicaid waivers. The Iowa Finance Authority provides temporary rental assistance for people who receive services through Medicaid waivers. For more information, visit their website or contact their office toll free at 1-800-432-7230.
Iowa Finance Authority
2015 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50312
515-725-4900 (Des Moines metro area)
Many members apply for waivers. It is possible that there may be a waiting list for waivers. The waiting list can vary by program and by utilization rates. Your HHS worker can help you understand waiting lists.
How to Apply Online
Please visit the Iowa Medicaid webpage to learn how to apply online.
Where to go for assistance
Use the interactive HHS map to locate a HHS office for assistance.
Are you having trouble affording rent?
The Iowa Finance Authority provides temporary rental assistance for members who receive services through Medicaid waivers. For more information, visit their website or contact their office toll free at 1-800-432-7230.
Iowa Finance Authority
2015 Grand Ave.
Des Moines, IA 50312
515-725-4900 (Des Moines metro area)
800-432-7230
Information regarding Estate Recovery:
When you received Medicaid benefits, which includes capitation fees paid to a managed care organization, even if the plan did not pay for any services, the State of Iowa has the right to ask for money back from your estate after your death. Members affected by the estate recovery policy are those who are:
Competency-Based Training for Providers and Direct Support Professionals
Competency-based training (CBT), technical assistance (TA), and consultation for Iowa long-term services and supports (LTSS) providers and case managers has come to Iowa Medicaid. The Iowa Legislature has provided for specific funding to provide TA and statewide CBT to Medicaid providers and case managers of LTSS. Iowa Legislature appropriates funding for these services annually. The CBT and TA will be provided with the intent of generating positive outcomes for providers and members. This CBT will be focused on providing a better understanding of, and compliance with, state and federal regulations concerning service provision. It will also be implemented to increase provider staff competencies in provision of direct services. This CBT is a statewide initiative for LTSS service providers and case managers.