Healthy Behaviors Program

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Medicaid Program
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What are Healthy Behaviors?

Members in the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP) can receive free healthcare if they choose to take specific steps to protect their health and complete what are known as Healthy Behaviors. 

To continue receiving free coverage under IHAWP, you must complete your Healthy Behaviors.

​All members will have the first 30 days of each annual enrollment period to complete or self-report completion of healthy behaviors for the previous enrollment period.

There is a copay for using the emergency room for non-emergency services. This charge may vary slightly depending on your health plan. 

 

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What is the Monthly Contribution?

There are no charges for health services during a member’s first year of enrollment. Beginning in the member’s second year of enrollment, small monthly contributions may be required, depending on family income. There are no copayments for health care services and prescriptions.

 

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How to Enroll in Healthy Behaviors

There are two Healthy Behaviors requirements you need to complete each year: 

1. You must complete a Health Risk Assessment (HRA)

If you are part of the Iowa Health Link managed care program, contact your health plan to complete your HRA.

  • Wellpoint: 1-800-600-4441
  • Iowa Total Care: 1-833-404-1061
  • Molina Healthcare of Iowa: 1-844-236-0894

If you are NOT part of the Iowa Health Link managed care program, you can complete your HRA by calling 1-800-338-8366.

 

2. You must get a Wellness Exam -OR- a Dental Exam

Wellness Exam

  • Call your primary care provider (PCP) to schedule your wellness exam.
  • Tell your PCP this is one of your healthy behaviors for IHAWP.

Dental Exam

  • Call your dentist to schedule a dental exam.
  • Tell your dentist this is one of your healthy behaviors for your Iowa Health and Wellness Plan. 
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Will I be notified if I have not completed a Healthy Behavior?

Your health plan will send you Healthy Behavior reminder letters before the end of your enrollment year:

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What is a Wellness Exam?

An annual wellness exam, or “physical,” is a check-up with your health care provider to help prevent health problems before they start.

During the exam, your provider may:

  • Check your pulse and blood pressure
  • Listen to your lungs
  • Recommend screenings or take blood tests, such as checking your cholesterol

This is different from a visit when you’re sick or injured, which focuses on treating a specific problem.

A yearly physical helps your provider stay up to date on your health and gives you time to discuss any concerns. Even if you feel well, it’s important to have a physical exam every year.

 

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What is a Dental Exam?

A dental exam is a checkup from your dentist which aims to prevent dental problems before they occur.

In a dental exam, your dentist will go over your dental health. You may receive a cleaning or basic x-rays. It’s important to maintain a healthy mouth - it’s a key part of overall health. Remember, under the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan, you will not be charged for check-ups and preventive screenings.

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