Today, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (Iowa HHS) is announcing the intent to award seven individual contracts to entities that will serve as Disability Access Points (DAP) across the state. The full list of recipients can be found here.
Disability Access Points are district-level organizations that connect individuals with disabilities to providers who can provide the necessary services to meet their needs. DAPs provide information, assistance, person-centered planning, etc. to those who walk through their doors.
In May 2024, Governor Kim Reynolds signed into law HF2673, the historic behavioral health bill, which transfers the management of disability services from the local Mental Health Disability Services (MHDS) Regions to Iowa HHS’s Division of Aging and Disability Services (ADS).
The state’s overall management of this work allows for a streamlined focus on delivering systems of support, care and connection for all Iowans and families with disability needs. In addition, the state will build relationships and leverage opportunities to get additional providers and organizations on board to support the needs and develop a statewide Aging and Disability Resource Center Network.
"At Iowa HHS, we have been fully committed to reimagining and overhauling our systems to ensure they are entirely centered around the individuals we serve," said Kelly Garcia, Iowa HHS Director. "While we've made great strides in many areas, one thing remains clear: Iowans want seamless, easy access to care, and they want to receive that care within their communities—and ultimately, in their homes. It's equally important to make sure all aspects of our system—whether Medicaid, Public Health, or Behavioral Health—are interconnected and aligned."
The Disability Access Points will serve the same seven districts outlined in the Behavioral Health System. Iowa HHS will work collaboratively with the DAPs to coordinate and oversee access to long-term services and supports and ensuring for well-defined access points.
“Iowans with disabilities, their families and caregivers will now have the same opportunity to access the care they need whether they are in northwest Iowa or eastern Iowa…and every point in between,” said Zach Rhein, Iowa HHS Aging and Disability Division Director. “We will work closely with our established network to enhance their reach and services, as well as our Technical Assistance and Call Center, so that any Iowan has every opportunity to reach out and be connected to the services they need.”
The new Disability Services System will begin July 1, 2025, in conjunction with the new Behavioral Health System Alignment.
To learn more about the Disability Services System and Disability Access Points, visit https://hhs.iowa.gov/initiatives/system-alignment/iowas-disability-services-system.