The 2026 Iowa legislative session is underway, and IHCA is advocating at the Capitol for policies that support long-term care providers across the state. IHCA’s priorities include strengthening the CNA and CMA workforce pipeline, improving access to care through a more sustainable Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Elderly Waiver and securing funding to support critical long-term care services. To connect directly with legislators on these issues, mark your calendar for IHCA Day on the Hill, happening March 4, 2026.
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As we kick off 2026, IHCA President and CEO Brent Willett reminds members that work in long-term care isn’t a tragedy — it’s a calling that requires resilience, skill and professionalism. He reaffirms IHCA’s commitment to elevating the work of providers and advocating for the fairness, respect and recognition the profession has earned.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Nov. 12, Nov. 26 and Dec. 10 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses related to Medicaid waiver services, conditions of participation for providers of medical and remedial care, adopted and filed rule related to conditions of eligibility, newly noticed rules related to assisted living programs, health care facility audits, adult day care and more.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit, to be held tomorrow, Dec. 4, and sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 4.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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Iowa Medicaid and Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have issued IL 2717 outlining annual fraud- and abuse-prevention submission requirements for providers or entities receiving $5 million or more in Medicaid payments during a federal fiscal year. Eligible providers must maintain specific written policies and submit the required Attestation of Compliance form (470-5506) by Jan. 31, 2026. Failure to comply may result in sanctions, including suspension or termination from the Iowa Medicaid program.
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CMS has approved a one-year temporary extension and amendment of the "Iowa Wellness Plan" section 1115 demonstration. This approval allows the state to continue operating the demonstration through 2026 and sunsets the waiver of non-emergency medical transportation on Dec. 31, 2026.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit to be held next Thursday, Dec. 4, and sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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Iowa Medicaid is aligning with the requirements for the coordination of benefits to ensure when a member has both Medicaid and commercial insurance (primary payer), Medicaid is the payor of last resort. Payments cannot exceed the Medicaid allowable amount or the amount paid by commercial insurance. This is known as the Lesser of Logic. This policy is effective for claims received by managed care organizations (MCOs) and dental plans on or after Dec. 1, 2025. Implementation for Fee-For-Service claims will occur at a later date and additional guidance will be provided. This logic has been applied to Medicare claims since July 1, 2017, and will be extended to commercial claims received on or after Dec. 1, 2025, for claims received by MCOs and dental plans.
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The One Big Beautiful Bill Act introduces major Medicaid changes that will significantly affect Iowa’s long-term care providers, including reduced retroactive coverage beginning in 2027, more frequent eligibility redeterminations and new asset and home equity limits in 2028. While the law delays the federal staffing mandate, it also adjusts how states can finance Medicaid, creating additional operational and administrative considerations for providers. Facilities will need to prepare for shorter coverage windows, increased renewal activity and upcoming eligibility rule changes.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4, sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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IHCA is seeking member feedback through its 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey to help guide future initiatives in education, communication and member support. Members are encouraged to complete the short, 15-minute survey by this Friday, Nov. 14, using the link that corresponds with their sector. The results will help IHCA enhance the value and effectiveness of its programs and services.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. IHCA is actively reviewing the new regulatory analyses and plans to make requests for modifications as necessary and communicate out important changes as they become finalized. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Oct. 15 and Oct. 29 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses related to adult day care, assisted living programs and Certificate of Need, as well as a newly noticed rule related to personal needs allowance.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) has released an updated version of form 470-2115 – Authorization to Disclose Personal Health Information (PHI) Form for Eligibility Verification Purposes. This form replaces the previous version of form 470-2115 – Authorization for the Department to Release Information. Effective immediately, any prior versions of form 470-2115 on file that have not yet expired cannot be honored for the release of information. Facilities and individuals must use the new form to authorize the release of information to Iowa DHHS. Providers should ensure they are using the updated form moving forward to avoid delays in eligibility verification or information requests.
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On Nov. 10, Iowa Total Care released an updated Provider News Alert regarding prior authorization (PA) requirements, originally published on Nov. 3. The revised alert includes key updates regarding additional details on behavioral health PA requirements, inclusion of a new maternal health item and code changes effective Feb. 1, 2026. Aside from these updates, the information remains consistent with the version previously issued. Providers are encouraged to review the full alert carefully to ensure compliance with the updated effective date and new requirements.
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IHCA's hybrid Technology and Innovation Summit on Dec. 4, sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., will focus on how artificial intelligence (AI), automation and emerging technologies are transforming the long-term and senior care landscape. Through expert presentations, real-world examples and provider insights, attendees will explore practical strategies for implementing technology that improves care quality, reduces staff burden, enhances efficiency and ensures compliance. This summit is offered in a hybrid format and is approved for 5.5 contact hours for administrators, assisted living managers, nurses, social services staff and department heads.
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Iowa Total Care announced updates to its prior authorization (PA) requirements effective Nov. 3, 2025, aimed at reducing administrative burden and improving access to care. The revisions include removing certain PA requirements, standardizing rules across service categories and markets and refining criteria for services. Providers are encouraged to review the updated code list and contact their provider relations specialist with any questions.
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IHCA is seeking member feedback through its 2025 Member Satisfaction Survey to help guide future initiatives in education, communication and member support. Members are encouraged to complete the short, 15-minute survey by Friday, Nov. 14, using the link that corresponds with their sector. The results will help IHCA enhance the value and effectiveness of its programs and services.
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IHCA's eight-part Dementia Care On-Demand Training Series is crafted to address the multifaceted aspects of dementia care, encompassing not only the medical and cognitive dimensions but also the emotional, social and ethical considerations that play a vital role in providing holistic care. This training series provides the tools and insights needed to create a supportive and enriching environment for individuals with dementia, fostering dignity, respect and a sense of well-being and is approved for 8.0 contact hours for nurses, activity professionals, social services staff, environmental services staff, department heads, administrators, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Medicare's open enrollment period is here! Visit Medicare.gov/plan-compare now through Dec. 7 to compare all your coverage options.
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IHCA has provided a breakdown of how the federal government shutdown impacts survey activity across different care settings. Please review the relevant section(s) for your organization. All providers are encouraged to stay proactive and compliant during this period to avoid future enforcement complications.
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IHCA has been made aware of delays affecting providers and Medicaid beneficiaries in the completion of level of care assessments conducted by Telligen. We have been in contact with the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) regarding this issue. DHHS has confirmed that it is aware of the backlog and is monitoring assessment completion rates on a weekly basis. To help address the delays, all assessments with due dates prior to July 1, 2025, will be conducted virtually. This protocol will be applied consistently across all waiver types and assessment categories.
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Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing (DIAL) has expanded virtual options for the written portion of the CNA competency exam, adding a second online pathway beyond the one launched in June 2025. Nurse aide candidates — regardless of training program location — can now register and complete the written exam from home or work. The skills evaluation remains in person at approved sites for now, with DIAL exploring remote skills testing; IHCA will share updates when available.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Sept. 17 and Oct. 1 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses related to personal needs allowance, investigatory authority and procedures of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and newly noticed rules related to Medicaid enrollment, personal needs allowance and more.
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Thank you to those who joined us at IHCA's 2025 Convention and Trade Show! CEUs from this event have now been uploaded to your IHCA profile. Please take some time to verify that you received credit for all of the sessions you attended. If you find that you are missing any certificates, please send a list of the sessions that are missing to
[email protected].
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," this Friday, Oct. 3, with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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Effective Oct. 1, 2025, Iowa Total Care has provided a list of manufacturers that will be terminated from the Medicaid Drug Rebate Program (MDRP) and will no longer be covered. For additional information regarding the MDRP changes please email the Iowa Total Care pharmacy team at
[email protected].
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IHCA's on-demand Cybersecurity Essentials Series, sponsored by CLA, will help you fortify your digital fortress by focusing on cybersecurity hygiene, ransomware resilience and defending against business email compromise. Attendees will learn to identify online behaviors that can lead to increased exposure, identify common threats, gain insights into the latest ransomware threat landscape and develop and refine incident response plans. This on-demand course is approved for 3.0 contact hours for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services, nurses, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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On Jan. 1, 2026, CMS will implement new prior authorization (PA) response time requirements for all providers. With shorter response times for supporting clinical information requests, all necessary clinical information should be submitted at the time of the authorization request. Centene clinical policies and criteria can be found at Availity or on Iowa Total Care’s clinical, payment and pharmacy policies webpage.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," on Oct. 3 with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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The 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting will be held Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown during the IHCA Convention and Trade Show. Members will hear the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Provider Cabinets, gain updates on key legislative and regulatory issues, and earn 1.0 CEU for attending. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, the meeting is an opportunity to help shape the association’s direction and celebrate shared achievements.
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IHCA will host a one-hour webinar, "Time to Lead – Prioritizing What Matters," tomorrow, Sept. 11, with leadership expert Jerald Cosey. The session will equip long-term care leaders with tools to manage the “firefighting” cycle, prioritize strategic goals and build a resilient leadership mindset. Sponsored by Brighton Consulting Group, the webinar is approved for 1.0 contact hour and will be available on-demand after the live session.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention & Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., is officially sold out! A limited first-come, first-served waitlist is available for those who wish to attend but have not yet registered. Along with top-notch education and a packed trade show, IHCA's Convention offers plenty of ways to connect and celebrate — from receptions and networking to Casino Night, Music Bingo, free headshots and more.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recently released the 2025-2026 influenza vaccine recommendations in its Morbidity and Mortality Week Report (MMWR). Routine annual influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons aged ≥6 months without a contraindication to vaccination to protect against influenza and its complications. Full details, including updates from the 2024-2025 season, timing and selection of vaccine are outlined in the MMWR report and in the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP) summary of recommendations.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly — reserve your spot today.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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Nominations for IHCA's 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils are due by this Friday, Aug. 29. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly — reserve your spot today.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by this Friday, Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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CMS has announced plans to modernize the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) program by moving to a fully electronic system. By March 1, 2026, nursing homes performing lab testing must transition to email notifications, electronic fee coupons and electronic CLIA certificates, as paper versions will no longer be available. Facilities can make the switch by notifying their state agency in writing or updating their CMS-116 application form.
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IHCA continues to track issues of importance to members, including the subjects mentioned in the Iowa Administrative Bulletin that is released every two weeks. The bi-weekly areas of note found in the Aug. 6 and Aug. 20 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include updates on nursing home administrator licensure, enrollment and reenrollment, conditions of eligibility, the long-term care ombudsman and more.
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Iowa Medicaid will host its 2025 Annual Medicaid Provider Training this fall, with sessions offered in person on Sept. 30 in Des Moines and virtually on Oct. 14. Providers must register by Sept. 19 to participate, choosing either the in-person or virtual option. The training offers an opportunity to connect with Iowa Medicaid, ask questions and learn about program updates impacting providers. Additionally, Iowa Medicaid now offers competency-based training and technical assistance for long-term care providers and case managers, with resources available for a wide range of services.
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All IHCA members are encouraged to attend the 2025 IHCA Annual Business Meeting on Tuesday, Sept. 23, from 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown. Sponsored by Williams & Company P.C., Brighton Consulting Group and IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, this event will feature the announcement of the 2026 IHCA Board of Trustees and Cabinets. All disciplines can earn 1.0 CEU for attending, making it a valuable opportunity to connect, engage and help shape the future of Iowa’s long-term and home care sector.
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Nominations for IHCA's 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils are due by next Friday, Aug. 29. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., will take place Sept. 22–24 in downtown Des Moines. Along with more than 40 education sessions and a bustling trade show, the convention features special events including receptions, networking activities, entertainment and exclusive member gatherings. Seats are filling quickly and registrations are expected to sell out soon — reserve your spot today.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by next Friday, Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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Some of the most meaningful advocacy outcomes are the structural changes that help providers plan and succeed long-term. With support from Iowa Health PAC and active engagement from IHCA members, 2025 brought several future-focused reforms.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines, will celebrate the association’s 75th anniversary with three days of education, networking and recognition. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., the event will feature more than 40 education sessions, nationally renowned keynote speakers and a bustling trade show with over 90 vendors. Attendees can earn up to 15.0 CEUs and participate in special events like Casino Night and Music Bingo. Highlights include keynotes from Chris Norton, Danny Goldberg and Dan Gable.
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IHCA is marking its 75th anniversary with a member-exclusive trivia contest sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support. Three winners will each receive a free full registration to the 2025 IHCA Convention & Trade Show, Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines. Members can enter by completing the IHCA 75th Anniversary Trivia Quiz by Aug. 29. Winners will be notified via email by Sept. 5.
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IHCA is now accepting nominations for its 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. All nominations must be submitted by Aug. 29, 2025, to be considered. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA is now accepting nominations for its 2026 cabinets, committees and advisory councils. Whether your expertise is in clinical care, operations, education, public policy or quality improvement, there’s a leadership opportunity for you. Members may nominate themselves or a peer for the group that best aligns with their interests and experience. All nominations must be submitted by Aug. 29, 2025, to be considered. Nominations will be reviewed by the IHCA Executive Committee Chair, and selected individuals will be notified in November. Terms begin in January 2026.
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IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 22–24 in Des Moines, will celebrate the association’s 75th anniversary with three days of education, networking and recognition. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., the event will feature more than 40 education sessions, nationally renowned keynote speakers and a bustling trade show with over 90 vendors. Attendees can earn up to 15.0 CEUs and participate in special events like Casino Night and Music Bingo. Highlights include keynotes from Chris Norton, Danny Goldberg and Dan Gable.
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IHCA's Business Office Manager Training Series, sponsored by IHCA Provider Solutions Enrollment Support, is designed to equip business office managers with the essential skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the intricate financial and administrative landscape of long-term care facilities. Experienced industry professionals will guide participants through best practices and strategies which will allow for effective implementation in your facility’s daily operations.
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Congratulations to IHCA member Briarwood Healthcare Center in Iowa City on receiving the 2025 Governor’s Award for Quality Care! The award will be presented on Aug. 6 by Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals and Licensing Director Larry Johnson, Jr. This honor recognizes Briarwood’s exceptional commitment to resident care and innovative practices that enhance quality of life.
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Join us Sept. 22–24 for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show as we celebrate 75 years of empowering members and improving lives. Sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., this milestone event will feature inspiring keynote speakers including Dan Gable, Chris Norton and Danny Goldberg. Attendees can expect expert-led education, a robust trade show and special anniversary celebrations honoring the strength and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care community.
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Earlier this week, the IHCA Foundation awarded over $100,000 in scholarships to 74 IHCA members seeking to further their health care education in the long-term care sector. The recipients include current long-term care workers, high school students, first-generation college students and individuals from rural communities. Scholarships provide for the cost of a variety of health care and leadership programs to equip health care workers with the skills they need to work in long-term care. The IHCA Foundation is grateful for its generous donors and applauds this year’s recipients for their dedication to this essential field.
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Iowa Medicaid's Annual Provider Training will take place in person on Tuesday, Sept. 30, from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at the Iowa State Historical Museum in Des Moines. The event is open to all provider types and will include sessions on fee-for-service billing, provider enrollment and updates from MCOs. A virtual session will be available later this fall for those unable to attend in person. Registration opens next month, and providers are encouraged to submit topic suggestions or questions in advance.
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Get ready to celebrate a monumental milestone — IHCA’s 75th anniversary — at the 2025 Convention and Trade Show, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc.! With the theme “Diamond Resilience,” this year’s event promises to honor the strength, brilliance and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care professionals.
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