In the state of Iowa, applying for long term care services for students with disabilities can be overwhelming. There is a lengthy application process and a very long waitlist. Secondary Transition focuses on the post-secondary areas of living, learning, and working. At the MBAEA, we are passionate about providing resources and referrals to assure our educators, students, and families are aware of support in our communities and region which can continue to allow individuals to develop independence. Long term care services are available in Iowa for eligible students and it is never too early for our families and educator partners to support students in their preparation for life after high school.
Iowa currently has seven Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Waiver Programs that provide funding, services, and support for individuals with disabilities. HCBS Waivers provide individualized supports that allow for more choice about how and where services are received. Some of the traditional Medicaid eligibility requirements are waived and give families more choices about the long term care needs of their child. Families should consider applying as early in their child’s academic career due to the long waitlist. Many of these Medicaid Waiver Programs currently have a 3-4 year wait, which continues to grow. This becomes a critical issue as students approach graduation and do not have long term care plans to continue supporting them at home and in the community after high school. See the links below for more specific information on eligibility requirements and the application process.
Iowa Departments of Human Services: Home- and Community-Based Services
For questions, contact one of our Transition Specialists:
Jody Beltran Transition Specialist 563-344-6288 (Serves Bettendorf Community School District, Clinton County School District, Jackson County School District, North Scott Community School District)
Michelle Wehr Transition Specialist Phone: 563-344-6292 (Serves Davenport Community School District, Louisa County School Districts, Muscatine County School Districts, Pleasant Valley Community School District)