On January 6, 2023, a suit was brought against the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services on behalf of Medicaid-eligible children with serious mental and behavioral health needs, which asserted that Iowa administers an inadequate mental health system that does not provide children and youth with legally required services.
To address these issues, HHS has launched major transformations through the Mental Health and Disability Regional structure to provide core services to children in Iowa and will continue to improve the state’s mental health system specifically for all Iowans.
The following are resources regarding a class action suit at the Boys State Training School (BSTS) in Eldora, Iowa. We are actively making changes to address the concerns raised in the suit. We’re committed to sharing information and updates as we make progress. The Iowa Department of Human Services continues its commitment to an open dialog with all stakeholders and building trust through transparency.
The following are resources regarding the Department of Justice (DOJ) investigation(s) at the Glenwood and Woodward State Resource Centers, and the closure of Glenwood Resource Center.
Just as we have since the investigation(s) began, we will continue to keep all stakeholders updated, including the families of our clients, legislators and the public. Our highest priority is the care and well-being of those we serve.
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Department of Public Health and Department of Human Services Alignment
The Iowa Departments of Public Health (IDPH) and Human Services (DHS) are becoming one, single, department. IDPH and DHS will fully transition into the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) by July 1, 2023.
The legislature has directed the transition accomplish the following:
More efficiently and effectively manage health and human services programs that are the responsibility of the state.
Establish a health and human services policy for the state.
Promote health and the quality of life in the health and human services field.
