Key Changes to HCBS Assessments

Iowa HHS is improving the assessment process to make it more consistent, simple, and person-centered. Starting in 2025, Telligen will handle all HCBS assessments, and managed care organizations will no longer be be responsible for completing the HCBS assessments. Also, people enrolled in ID waiver began receiving InterRAI assessments since their old assessment tool was discontinued.

Learn more at HCBS Assessments | Health & Human Services

Overview

Through the HOME project, Iowa HHS is working to make sure that everyone has access to high-quality behavioral health, disability and aging services in their communities. The goal is to improve services to make it easier for people to access the help they need and stay in their communities with their loved ones.  

This page will be the central hub for information about the HOME project, including updates about HOME activities, upcoming changes to the HCBS system, and opportunities to give feedback on key HOME decisions. 

The HOME project began in 2022, when HHS partnered with Mathematica to conduct a thorough evaluation of Iowa’s home and community-based service (HCBS) system. HHS and Mathematica received extensive input from invested Iowans on needed improvements to the HCBS system. This input led HHS to identify the HOME project’s key focus areas of improving case management, assessment, and HCBS waivers. 

HOME Timeline and Updates

Iowa HHS is hard at work strengthening the state’s HCBS system. Click here to learn more about the HOME project timeline and find recent updates on HOME activities.  

The timeline shows the progress Iowa has made since 2022 to evaluate and begin making improvements to programs and services. It also shows the changes that are coming up in the next few years to build a coordinated system with better access to services. 

Stakeholder Engagement 

Iowa HHS is committed to partnering with Iowans who use HCBS, family caregivers, advocates and providers throughout the HOME project. HHS shares regular updates about HOME project activities on this website, in the HOME newsletter, and in Medicaid Town Hall meetings. You can find more information about how the HOME project is engaging with invested Iowans here.  

Stay in Touch 

If you have questions about HOME, please send us a line at iowahcbs@mathematica-mpr.com.  You can also sign up here for the HOME newsletter to get regular project updates sent straight to your inbox.