1.Program Definition and Services
Homemaker Services in Iowa provide assistance to individuals who are unable to perform day-to-day household duties and have no one available to assist them. Services include:
- Light housekeeping (vacuuming, dusting, scrubbing floors, cleaning medical equipment)
- Laundry (washing and mending clothes)
- Meal planning and preparation
- Essential shopping for basic need items
- Washing dishes
2. Regulations
Homemaker Services are governed by Iowa Administrative Code (IAC) 441-78.34 for HCBS health and disability waiver services
3. Licensing or Certification
Providers must be enrolled through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) to offer Homemaker Services. Specific certifications may be required depending on the type of service provided
4. Responsible State Agency
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) oversees Homemaker Services programs
5. Application Process
Providers must enroll through the Iowa Medicaid Enterprise (IME) Provider Enrollment Unit to become Medicaid providers for Homemaker Services
6. Required Documentation
Required documentation includes:
- Completed provider enrollment application
- Proof of liability insurance
- Staff qualifications and certifications
- Business registration documents
- Federal Employer Identification Number (EIN)
7. Timeline for Approval
The Medicaid application process in Iowa can take up to 3 months from the beginning of the application process through the receipt of the determination letter
8. Pre-Application Process
There is no specific pre-application process mentioned.
9. Pre-Application Training
While no mandatory pre-application training is mentioned, staff providing Homemaker Services must meet specific qualifications and may require ongoing training
10. Additional Notes
- Services must be provided in integrated, community-based settings that support full access of members to the greater community
- A unit of service is 15 minutes
- Individuals providing self-directed personal care services must be at least 16 years old
- Providers cannot be the parent or stepparent of a minor child member or the spouse of a member
- Providers must prepare timecards or invoices that identify services provided and time of service
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