Habilitation Services in Iowa 


1.Program Definition and Services 

Habilitation Services in Iowa is a program designed to provide Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) for Iowans with functional impairments typically associated with chronic mental illnesses. Services include: 

  • Case Management 
  • Home-Based Habilitation 
  • Day Habilitation
  • Prevocational Services 
  • Supported Employment 
  • These services aim to assist participants in acquiring, retaining, and improving self-help, socialization, and adaptive skills necessary for successful community living 

 

2. Regulations 

The program is governed by Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 441-78.27 for home- and community-based habilitation services 

 

3. Licensing or Certification 

Providers must be enrolled through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) to provide habilitation services. Certification is required, but a separate license is not mentioned 

 

4. Responsible State Agency 

The Iowa Department of Human Services (DHS) oversees the Habilitation Services program 

 

5. Application Process 

Providers must enroll through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) Provider Enrollment Unit to become a Medicaid provider for habilitation services 

 

6. Required Documentation 

Required documentation includes: 

  • Completed provider enrollment application 
  • IRS Form W-9 (signed and dated) 
  • Iowa State Medicaid Approval Letter and NPI Number 
  • Copy of General/Professional Liability Insurance ($1M/$3M) 
  • Any applicable certifications, licenses, or accreditations 

 

7. Timeline for Approval 

The exact timeline for approval is not specified in the provided information. 

 

8. Pre-Application Process 

There is no specific pre-application process mentioned. 

 

9. Pre-Application Training 

No mandatory pre-application training is mentioned. However, providers must meet specific qualifications and may require ongoing training. 

 

10. Additional Notes 

  • Services must be provided in integrated, community-based settings 
  • Providers must use an interoperable patient registry and certified electronic health record 
  • Eligibility criteria include being an Iowa resident, having a chronic mental health diagnosis, and being Medicaid-eligible 
  • As of August 1, 2018, administrative rules were updated to implement settings requirements in compliance with federal regulations 
  • Reimbursement rates for HCBS Habilitation services were increased in 2021

 

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