What you need to know about HCBS Waivers

January 25, 2023

Iowa Home and
community based services (HCBS)

hcbs webinar hosted by ask resource

Watch our ASK an Expert Webinar with Alicia, a parent, and Family Support Specialist with ASK, to learn relevant, high-quality information to help families navigate the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Waiver Program. The power point that accompanies this video can be found here. Q&A starts at 29:00.

<h2>FAQ FROM FAMILIES: WAIVER SERVICES IN IOWA HOME AND COMMUNITY BASED SERVICES (HCBS)</h2> <p>When accessing a Medicaid HCBS waiver an individual will be assigned either a Managed Care Organization (MCO) or Fee for Service (FFS). Most individuals will be covered by a MCO. These are common questions from families about applying for and utilizing HCBS waiver services. Read and print out the ASK Resource <a href="https://www.askresource.org/filesimages/ASK%20Info%20Sheets/FAQ%20for%20Waivers.pdf" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p><br> </p>

APPLYING FOR A WAIVER IN IOWA

What are Home and Community Based Services? Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) are for people with disabilities and older Iowans who need services to allow them to stay in their home and community instead of going to an institution. Iowa currently has seven HCBS waivers in the waiver program. These waivers provide service funding and individualized supports to allow eligible members to remain in their own homes or communities. Learn more from our ASK Resource here.

PAPER APPLICATION FOR THE HCBS WAIVER

This is the printable paper application for the HCBS Waiver. Helpful Hint: on page 17 you can check the box for HCBS waivers. It has also been recommended to write which waiver(s) you're applying for at the top of the front page to help get it processed.

ONLINE APPLICATION FOR THE HCBS WAIVER

Here is where you can apply online for the HCBS Waiver. Helpful Hint: on page 17 you can check the box for HCBS waivers. It has also been recommended to write which waiver(s) you're applying for at the top of the front page to help get it processed.

ENROLLMENT PROCESS FLOW CHART

This flow chart outlines the different work flows that illustrate various policies and processes in the HCBS Waiver program.

HCBS WAIVER WAITING LIST INFORMATION

This is a link to the HCBS Waiver Waiting List. In order to find out what year DHS is working on, scroll down to your waiver, look for the "next application date for slot" and you will see the date of the application that they are currently working on. Many people have to wait for years to get a slot on a waiver. This document will give you an idea of how long you will be waiting depending on which waiver(s) you have applied for.