Posted: September 17, 2026
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), pursuant to the requirements outlined in 42 C.F.R. § 440.386, hereby gives notice of the following proposed action regarding coverage of Non-Emergency Medical Transportation (NEMT) for all of the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan (IHAWP) population under the State Plan under Title XIX of the Social Security Act Medical Assistance Program (Medicaid).
Summary of Submission:
Iowa has historically waived NEMT coverage for the IHAWP population through an 1115 demonstration. CMS has given notice that they will no longer approve this waiver beginning January 1, 2027. The SPA submission adds NEMT as a covered benefit to the Alternative Benefit Plan (ABP) SPA on pages 32 and 33. Coverage of NEMT follows Iowa Code and is the same as coverage for the Medicaid population.
Fiscal Impact:
Estimates are based on the state fiscal year (SFY) 2027 population.
Annualized SFY27 Estimate:
- Total Funds: $129,367
- State Share: $15,697
Public Review and Comments
A copy of the Medicaid State Plan Amendment and this public notice are posted on the HHS website at the following link: XX[LM1] .
To reach all stakeholders, non-electronic copies will be made available for review at each local HHS office.
Submission of Comments
Written comments concerning this notice may be addressed to Quality Improvement and Medical Policy Team, Iowa Department of Health and Human Services, Division of Medicaid, 312 East 12th Street, Des Moines, IA 50319 or may be emailed to [email protected]. Please indicate NEMT ABP SPA in the subject line of the email.
All written and emailed comments must be received within 30 days from the issuance of this notice and no later than October 17, 2026, by 4:30 p.m.
Submitted by:
Lee Grossman, Medicaid Director
Iowa Department of Health and Human Services