The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) has announced that certified nursing assistant (CNA) candidates can now complete the written portion of their competency exam remotely, starting June 2. This expansion aims to reduce common barriers such as travel, childcare and scheduling delays, making the path to CNA certification more accessible and affordable. While the skills exam must still be completed at an approved testing facility, IHCA applauds DIAL for this step forward and encourages members to share this flexible option with prospective CNAs.
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IHCA has scheduled a follow-up meeting with Iowa Medicaid Medical Policy Manager Becki Wedemeier to continue discussions on the upcoming Medicaid home health acuity reimbursement add-on, set to take effect next month. Part one of the discussion was held on June 12, and a summary of that conversation is now available. Part two of the virtual meeting will take place this Friday, June 27, from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Home health members are encouraged to attend to gain further clarity and ask any remaining questions on behalf of their agency.
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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., happening Sept. 22-24! With the theme “Diamond Resilience,” this year’s event promises to honor the strength, brilliance and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care professionals. Additionally, accommodations are available for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 21-24 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel, located at 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Attendees can enjoy a discounted rate for single or double occupancy rooms.
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Every year in July, CMS provides the home health industry with a proposed rule that impacts payment, compliance and quality measures. We expect this year to be one that will bring about many changes. IHCA's Home Health Proposed Rule and Actions webinar on July 30 will simplify the complex by breaking down each proposed change step-by-step, and what that may mean for you and your agency. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nurses and administrators.
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The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Publications On Demand service is ending. After September 2025, the CDC will no longer offer print materials through the CDC Publications On Demand service, and supplies will not be restocked. As part of the ongoing commitment to quality care and safety, now is the time to stock up on these free, print resources before they’re gone for good. Facilities are encouraged to order large quantities now to support future trainings, infection prevention campaigns and regulatory readiness.
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IHCA has scheduled a follow-up meeting with Iowa Medicaid Medical Policy Manager Becki Wedemeier to continue discussions on the upcoming Medicaid home health acuity reimbursement add-on, set to take effect next month. Part one of the discussion was held on June 12, and a summary of that conversation is now available. Part two of the virtual meeting will take place next Friday, June 27, from 8:30 a.m. - 10:00 a.m. Home health members are encouraged to attend to gain further clarity and ask any remaining questions on behalf of their agency.
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On Thursday, June 12, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Care Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. The call covered the home health proposed rule, April Interim Performance Report (IPR) review, home care payment recoupments, z-code issues and more.
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Following IHCA’s Managed Care Organization (MCO) Call on Wednesday, June 11, there was discussion about a recoupment project by Wellpoint involving the Z76.89 diagnosis code. Some providers have experienced claims being recouped because this code was not appearing on the claim. During a recent call, Iowa Medicaid Medical Policy Manager Becki Wedemeier indicated that providers experiencing these recoupments should contact her directly. Be prepared to share claim identification details to assist in her review of the issue.
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IHCA members are invited to join Wellpoint's Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) Health Care Networks team during its dedicated office hours. Wellpoint will be available to answer general questions and offer guidance on locating resources on its provider website, as well as Availity.
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The Final April 2025 Interim Performance Reports (IPRs) for the expanded Home Health Value Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model have been published on the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). The quarterly IPRs provide home health agencies with the cohort assignment, performance year measure data for the 12 most recent months and the interim Total Performance Score (TPS).
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Every year in July, CMS provides the home health industry with a proposed rule that impacts payment, compliance and quality measures. We expect this year to be one that will bring about many changes. IHCA's Home Health Proposed Rule and Actions webinar on July 30 will simplify the complex by breaking down each proposed change step-by-step, and what that may mean for you and your agency. This webinar is approved for 1.0 CEU for nurses and administrators.
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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., happening Sept. 22-24! With the theme “Diamond Resilience,” this year’s event promises to honor the strength, brilliance and dedication of Iowa’s long-term care professionals. Additionally, IHCA’s four districts are offering eligible members the opportunity to apply for grants that will cover the cost of registration for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show. To apply for a grant, complete the grant application form by Monday, June 30. Selected individuals will be contacted via email in July.
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IHCA’s Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference held next Wednesday, June 18, is a full-day event designed to inspire, empower and connect women across all roles in the long-term care profession. The conference will feature sessions on leadership, wellness, communication and resilience, including speakers such as former Iowa House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst and mental health advocate Lyndsey Fennelly. Approved for 6.0 CEUs, the event will offer valuable takeaways for personal and professional growth, capped off with networking and a floral bouquet bar.
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IHCA has arranged time to meet with Iowa Medicaid Medical Policy Manager Becki Wedemeier to further discuss and gain a clearer understanding of the home health acuity reimbursement add-on, which is scheduled to begin next month for Medicaid. If you're interested in joining, the virtual meeting will take place tomorrow, June 12, at 10:00 a.m.
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In May 2025, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released an updated version of the Home- and Community Based Services (HCBS) Consumer-Directed Attendant Care (CDAC) agreement form (470-3372). The main change separates the previous housekeeping / laundry N-code into three distinct codes for general cleaning, grocery shopping and laundry.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) was recently notified that three letters were sent to Smiths Medical customers with corrected use instructions for certain computerized ambulatory delivery device (CADD)-Solis Ambulatory Infusion Pumps and CADD-Solis VIP Ambulatory Infusion Pumps. The FDA also posted a recall notice for Amneal Pharmaceutical LLC sulfamethoxazole/trimethoprim tablets, USP, 400 mg/80 mg only. The company is recalling three lots of these tablets, distributed nationwide to wholesalers/distributors between Dec. 4, 2024, and May 15, 2025, as they may exhibit black spots on the tablet surface due to microbial contamination.
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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. This on-demand training series is approved for 8.0 CEUs for nurses, activity professionals, social services staff, environmental services staff, departments heads, administrators, assisted living managers and home care professionals.
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Nominations are currently being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA Board of Trustees. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must submit a nomination form by no later than July 4, 2025.
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) has announced that certified nursing assistant (CNA) candidates can now complete the written portion of their competency exam remotely, starting June 2. This expansion aims to reduce common barriers such as travel, childcare and scheduling delays, making the path to CNA certification more accessible and affordable. While the skills exam must still be completed at an approved testing facility, IHCA applauds DIAL for this step forward and encourages members to share this flexible option with prospective CNAs.
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Effective June 4, 2025, the Iowa Board of Nursing’s (IBON's) continuing education requirements for licensed nurses will change. As noticed in ARC 9162C, licensees will have additional latitude to choose where to obtain required continuing education. Although the total number of continuing education hours will not change, licensees will no longer be restricted to obtaining CE contact hours from IBON-approved providers, as this provision has been removed from the rules.
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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 May 14 and May 28 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include regulatory analyses, newly noticed rules, adopted and filed rules and new informational letters.
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Governor Reynolds recently signed two bills to support and expand access across Iowa’s health care system, which include several provisions aimed to assist nursing facilities in addressing staffing shortages, promoting strong quality care and enhancing workplace safety, particularly in rural areas.
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IHCA’s Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference on June 18 is a full-day event designed to inspire, empower and connect women across all roles in the long-term care profession. The conference will feature sessions on leadership, wellness, communication and resilience, including speakers such as Iowa House Minority Leader Jennifer Konfrst and mental health advocate Lyndsey Fennelly. Approved for 6.0 CEUs, the event will offer valuable takeaways for personal and professional growth, capped off with networking and a floral bouquet bar.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA Board of Trustees. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must submit a nomination form by no later than July 4, 2025.
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The IHCA Foundation’s 2025 scholarship program applications will close this Saturday. Don't miss this incredible opportunity; submit your application today! Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the IHCA Foundation will award up to 77 scholarships this year to support individuals pursuing or advancing their careers in long-term care.
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Nominations are now being accepted for members in good standing interested in serving on the IHCA Board of Trustees. Members interested in running or nominating a candidate for these positions must submit a nomination form by no later than July 4, 2025.
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The 2025 legislative session brought significant wins for Iowa’s long-term care providers, including historic Medicaid funding increases and key regulatory advancements. IHCA credits these outcomes to sustained advocacy, strong member engagement and political involvement. Iowa Health PAC plays a vital role in this process by helping IHCA educate and build relationships with policymakers. Now more than ever, member contributions to the PAC are critical to sustaining advocacy efforts and driving continued progress.
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A Special Edition Epi Update from the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Center for Acute Disease Epidemiology (CADE) regarding measles is now available. Iowa DHHS is reporting a confirmed case of measles in central Iowa in an unvaccinated adult. Public health officials will be reaching out to identified contacts, and no widespread public exposure is anticipated.
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IHCA's Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference on June 18 will be a dynamic gathering designed to uplift, connect and empower women across all roles in the long-term care continuum. Through a series of thought-provoking sessions, participants will explore essential themes of leadership, personal wellness, effective communication and purposeful living. This unique event will bring together voices from across the field and beyond to foster growth, resilience and community - highlighting the invaluable contributions women make every day. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., Blue Stone Therapy, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and btx, is approved for 6.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads, social services and activities staff.
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Thanks to the generosity of its donors, the IHCA Foundation will award up to 77 scholarships this year to support individuals pursuing or advancing their careers in long-term care. The IHCA Foundation’s 2025 scholarship program applications will close next week. Don't miss this incredible opportunity; submit your application today!
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The 2025 Iowa legislative session concluded last week, and IHCA is proud to share a strong slate of outcomes that advance access to care, protect providers from harmful legislation and secure vital investments in the long-term care profession.
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Effective June 4, 2025, Iowa’s licensed practical nurses (LPNs) will be allowed to perform initial and ongoing nursing assessments under revised administrative rules adopted by the Iowa Board of Nursing. While registered nurses (RNs) will still be responsible for the overall plan of care, this change marks a significant expansion of LPNs’ scope of practice — a move long advocated by IHCA to ease staffing burdens in long-term care settings. However, assisted living programs must continue following existing rules that require RNs to complete initial and significant change evaluations (assessments). While IHCA continues to advocate for change in these rules, assisted living programs employing LPNs should not adjust their policies until further notice.
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The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) recently disclosed that it would no longer apply independent contractor classification standards finalized last year under President Joe Biden when determining employee versus independent contractor status in Fair Labor Standards Act investigations. "This guidance does not change existing regulations but reflects how the department is allocating enforcement resources during the review of the 2024 rule," the DOL said.
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IHCA's Rooted to Rise – Women in Long-Term Care Conference on June 18 will be a dynamic gathering designed to uplift, connect and empower women across all roles in the long-term care continuum. Through a series of thought-provoking sessions, participants will explore essential themes of leadership, personal wellness, effective communication and purposeful living. This unique event will bring together voices from across the field and beyond to foster growth, resilience and community - highlighting the invaluable contributions women make every day. This event, sponsored by Martin Bros. Distributing Co., Inc., Blue Stone Therapy, Right Dose, A Guardian Pharmacy and btx, is approved for 6.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, assisted living managers, department heads, social services and activities.
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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, IHCA has launched a new Mental Health Mondays webinar series. The final webinar of the series, "Depression and Anxiety Management for Older Adults," will take place next Monday, May 19. Each webinar offers 1.0 CEU, with up to 3.0 CEUs available for those who attend the entire series. Webinars will be available both live and on-demand for registered participants.
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Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have broadened the scope of work where technology can save time and produce largely accurate results. One specific application where AI could be helpful to post-acute leaders is in the formulation of a plan of correction in response to a regulatory survey. Although AI creations are typically precise, leaders are reminded to use an AI draft as a starting point.
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The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) invites you to join its upcoming virtual town halls focused on aging and disability services. These sessions are an opportunity to share updates, hear your feedback and answer questions. A provider town hall will be held virtually today at 4:00 - 5:00 p.m.
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This year, Iowa Total Care is hosting five in-person Provider Summits across multiple regions in Iowa, making it easier for providers to join in their area. Each summit will feature key updates, educational sessions and plenty of opportunities to connect directly with subject matter experts from across Iowa Total Care.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering two different scholarship opportunities for new and experienced directors of nursing, made possible by Care Initiatives. All IHCA Foundation scholarship applications are due in two weeks; apply today!
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Governor Kim Reynolds has signed the Dietitian Licensure Compact (HF 532) to enhance access to nutrition services in long-term care settings by allowing licensed/registered dietitians to practice in multiple states without obtaining separate licenses. Through this compact, dietitians can apply for a “compact privilege” to work across state lines, reducing the need for multiple licenses and simplifying administrative processes. Governed by The Council of State Governments, the Dietician Licensure Compact is in the beginning stages of activation and compact privileges have not yet been issued. Members should be aware of the 12–24-month implementation timeline before compact privileges are in effect.
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IHCA's three-part on-demand webinar series, Cybersecurity Essentials for Long-Term Care - Protecting Yourself, Your Facility and Your Residents, sponsored by CLA, will help you fortify your digital fortress by focusing on cybersecurity hygiene, ransomware resilience and defending against business email compromise. This on-demand course is approved for 3.0 CEUs for activity professionals, dietary staff, social services staff, nurses, department heads, nursing facility administrators and assisted living managers.
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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, IHCA has launched a new Mental Health Mondays webinar series. The next webinar of the series, "CMS Revised Surveyor Guidance - Behavioral and Mental Health Supports," will take place next Monday, May 12. Each webinar offers 1.0 CEU, with up to 3.0 CEUs available for those who attend the entire series. Webinars will be available both live and on-demand for registered participants.
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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 April 16 and April 30 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include a newly noticed rule related to uniform waiver standards and an adopted and filed rule related to model rules for contested cases before licensing boards and settlements.
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Iowa Medicaid will stop enrolling Individual Consumer Directed Attendant Care (ICDAC) providers effective July 1, 2025, due to noncompliance with IRS tax rules, as identified by CMS. While this change does not directly impact IHCA members, individuals currently providing ICDAC services may seek employment with agency CDAC providers, including IHCA member agencies. Current ICDAC providers must transition to agency employment or the Consumer Choices Option (CCO) program by Nov. 30, 2025. Services can continue through Dec. 31, 2025, and transition planning should begin during annual service meetings.
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Leaders at IHCA member organizations can now apply for the Iowa Total Care Executive Health Care Leadership Institute Scholarship, which covers the full registration fee for IHCA’s premier leadership training program. Designed specifically for long-term care professionals, IHCA's Executive Health Care Leadership Institute blends core leadership skills with the technical expertise needed to thrive in today’s care settings. Nine scholarships are available, and applications are open through May 31.
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The Preliminary April 2025 Interim Performance Reports (IPRs) for the expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) Model have been published on the Internet Quality Improvement and Evaluation System (iQIES). The quarterly IPRs provide home health agencies (HHAs) with the cohort assignment, performance year measure data for the 12 most recent months and the interim Total Performance Score (TPS). Using the IPRs, an HHA can assess and track their performance relative to peers in their respective cohort throughout the expanded Model performance year.
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In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, IHCA is launching a new Mental Health Mondays webinar series, held on the first three Mondays in May. The series will explore critical mental health topics in long-term care, including self-care strategies, CMS guidance on behavioral health supports and managing depression and anxiety in older adults. Each webinar offers 1.0 CEU, with up to 3.0 CEUs available for those who attend all three. Webinars will be available both live and on-demand for registered participants.
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CGS Administrators, the Medicare Administrative Contractor (MAC) for jurisdictions that include Iowa home health agencies, has begun a new round of Targeted Probe and Educate (TPE) audits directed at home health providers. If your agency has been chosen, CGS will notify your agency by mail and through the MyCGS portal. The new TPE audits are focused specifically on claims associated with certain diagnosis codes and will apply to claims with dates of service on or after Jan. 1, 2025.
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The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is aware that BD and its subsidiary Bard Access Systems have issued a letter to affected customers recommending certain unused PowerPICC intravascular catheters be removed from where they are used or sold. Additionally, in-use PowerPICC intravascular catheters have updated instructions for use: 4 Fr. Single Lumen PowerPICC and SOLO and non-SOLO versions.
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The John W. and Kimberly D. Grubb Registered Nurse (RN) Scholarship is for employees of an IHCA member organization pursuing an accredited RN degree. One $3,000 scholarship and eight $2,000 scholarships are available. These scholarships are for the 2025-2026 academic year. Applications for all IHCA Foundation scholarship opportunities will close in one month; submit your application today!
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. An event is planned for this Friday in Ankeny with additional town halls held this weekend in Hiawatha, Des Moines and Marion. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Gather your friends, family or coworkers and form a team to participate in a Walk to End Alzheimer’s event near you. As the world’s largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer’s care, support and research, it’s more than just a walk — it’s a powerful movement. Join the Alzheimer’s Association in taking steps toward a future without Alzheimer’s disease. This article provides a summary of 2025 Walk to End Alzheimer's dates and locations.
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Iowa Total Care has announced new enhancements to Availity Essentials, effective April 21, 2025. Key updates include the ability to submit claim corrections directly from the claim status page, an improved Remittance Viewer with advanced search and filter options, and integrated InterQual review functionality within authorization requests. Live training sessions will be held today and tomorrow regarding these features.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have issued guidance (IL 2638) clarifying that home health care providers may complete up to five initial visits without prior authorization, regardless of discipline. These visits are intended to address immediate needs and develop the member’s plan of care. A prior authorization must be submitted before billing for any visits beyond the fifth, or claims will be denied. This policy applies to all Iowa Medicaid MCOs: Iowa Total Care, Molina Healthcare of Iowa, and Wellpoint Iowa, Inc.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny and Council Bluffs with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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On Thursday, April 10, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Health Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. The call included representatives from Wellpoint, and participants received reminders about reviewing reports, monitoring communications from managed care organizations and staying informed on claim submission processes.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have recently provided guidance and clarification on the requirements and configuration for home health care services (HHCS), billed to the managed care organizations (MCOs) on an 837 Institutional (837i) claim requiring Electronic Visit Verification (EVV).
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The Home Health Agency (HHA) Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports contain provider performance scores for quality measures, which will be published on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC) during the July 2025 refresh. Providers have until May 2, 2025, to review their performance data.
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U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recently made changes to Form I-9, Employment Eligibility Verification, to align with statutory language, and updated the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Privacy Notice. In addition, starting on April 3, 2025, E-Verify and E-Verify+ have updated the citizenship status selection during case creation to reflect this statutory language.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering up to 34 scholarships of $1,500 each for employees of IHCA member organizations pursuing accredited programs in nursing, health care administration, or physical/occupational therapy for the 2025-2026 academic year. Applications are open through May 31, 2025, and require a completed form, essay, transcript or acceptance letter, and a letter of recommendation. Several additional scholarship opportunities are also available for students and professionals in long-term care.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. An event is planned for this Friday in Ankeny with additional town halls held this weekend in Iowa City and Hiawatha. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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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 March 19 and April 2 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include a newly noticed rule related to specialized managed care programs and adopted and filed rules related to health care employment agencies, early and periodic screening, diagnosis and treatment, facility assessments and more.
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The Home Health Agency (HHA) Provider Preview Reports have been updated and are now available. These reports contain provider performance scores for quality measures, which will be published on the compare tool on Medicare.gov and the Provider Data Catalog (PDC) during the July 2025 refresh. Providers have until May 2, 2025, to review their performance data.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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The MolinaCares High School Scholarship, made possible by the MolinaCares Charitable Foundation, is made for Iowa high school seniors who are in their senior year of high school during the 2024-2025 academic year and interested in pursuing a nursing career in long-term care. Nine $2,000 scholarships are available. Applications are due May 31.
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The IHCA Foundation is now accepting applications through May 31 for 77 scholarships designed to support and advance careers in long-term care, including nursing, administration, physical and occupational therapy, as well as professional development courses. IHCA members are encouraged to apply and to share these exciting opportunities with their staff who are looking to further their education or boost their professional growth.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny, Lake Mills, Orient, Thompson, Forest City and Waterloo, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference begins this afternoon, with the opening general session beginning at 1:00 p.m. This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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The Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC) and the Department of Justice (DOJ) have released joint technical guidance to help employers ensure their diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) programs comply with federal anti-discrimination laws. If your organization has a DEI program in place, it’s important to review this new guidance to evaluate whether your initiatives align with federal compliance standards.
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The Q4 2024 home health (HH) survey trend report is now available on the IHCA website. This report is a member-only resource that provides listings of the most frequently cited tags and regulatory outcomes from Iowa agencies. Please share this report with the individuals at your organization involved with managing survey success, as it is a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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The IHCA Foundation is offering 77 scholarships this year to help individuals interested in pursuing or advancing their career in long-term care. Scholarship opportunities are available for current long-term care employees seeking to advance their health care or leadership skills, as well as high school seniors who are pursuing an education in health care. Scholarship applications will open next Monday, March 31, and close on May 31, 2025.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny and Iowa City with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is next week! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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On Thursday, March 13, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Health Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. This article contains a summary of the call and action steps home health providers should take to ensure compliance.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) released clarification on reporting requirements for recipients of Home- and Community-Based Services (HCBS) American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Recruitment and Retention (R&R) grant funds. Recipients must submit quarterly expenditure reports and are encouraged to fully expend their grant funds by March 31, 2025, though an extension until March 31, 2026, is available if needed. Final expenditure reports are due by April 30, 2026.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny and Council Bluffs with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Join IHCA tomorrow, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services staff and home health leaders.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is just two weeks away! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as CMS guidance changes, Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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Under the OSHA Standard 1904.41 - Electronic submission of Employer Identification Number (EIN) and injury and illness records to OSHA, certain employers are required to electronically submit their EIN and injury and illness records to OSHA. A cornerstone of this effort is the Injury Tracking Application (ITA), introduced through the "Improve Tracking of Workplace Injuries and Illnesses" rule. This article explores OSHA recordkeeping, the ITA’s role and its implications for LTC employers, including key metrics like the Days Away, Restricted or Transferred (DART) rate.
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The National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) is currently recruiting qualified nurses to serve on item review and item writing panels for the National Council Licensure Examination for Practical Nurses (NCLEX-PN) and National Council Licensure Examination for Registered Nurses (NCLEX-RN) examinations. Interested volunteers may apply directly on their website. Volunteers who participate on these panels are an integral part of the item development process. NCSBN is especially seeking nurses who are currently supervising newly licensed practical/vocational nurses (LPN/VNs).
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. An event is planned for this Friday in Ankeny, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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It's not too late to join IHCA's four-part Leadership Foundations webinar series, featuring Jerald Cosey. The second webinar of the series, Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework, will be held next Wednesday, March 12, and will explore the power of empathy in leadership. Please note, you must watch the recording of the first session in order to attend the remaining live sessions. The remaining live sessions will not be recorded.
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Join IHCA next Thursday, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and home health leaders.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Manchester, Greenfield, Ankeny and Waterloo, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is just three weeks away! This two-day, in-person event, presented by BCG Data Services, is our second largest event of the year. With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this is a must-attend event for IHCA members.
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IHCA's Spring Conference is just one month away! If you haven’t secured your accommodations yet, book your room by tomorrow, Feb. 27, to take advantage of the exclusive discounted rate. IHCA’s Spring Conference on March 26-27 is our second largest event of the year! With over 30 sessions covering key topics such as Medicaid eligibility, quality improvement, clinical trends and workplace culture – plus specialized sessions for activity professionals and home health staff – this conference, presented by BCG Data Services, is a must-attend event!
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On Thursday, Feb. 13, IHCA hosted its monthly Home Health Provider Update Call to discuss the most recent changes for the home health and home care profession. IHCA has provided a summary of the call, as well as action steps home health providers should take to ensure compliance.
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A research team at the University of Iowa is working to enhance dementia care through an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) digital tool designed to support family caregivers in managing pain for individuals with dementia. To ensure the tool meets the needs of caregivers and health care professionals, researchers are seeking participants with expertise in pain management for people with dementia to share their insights.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events are planned for this Friday in Ankeny, Coralville and Iowa City, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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A research team at the University of Iowa is working to enhance dementia care through an innovative artificial intelligence (AI) digital tool designed to support family caregivers in managing pain for individuals with dementia. To ensure the tool meets the needs of caregivers and health care professionals, researchers are seeking participants with expertise in pain management for people with dementia to share their insights.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have issued Informational Letter (IL) 2654, updating hospice payment policies and replacing previous guidance. A letter from CMS dated Sept. 13, 2024, updated the rates for the two-tiered system and Service Intensity Add-On (SIA), effective Oct. 1, 2024.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events will take place in Burlington, Ankeny, Lake Mills, Thompson, Forest City, Waterloo and Council Bluffs this Friday, with additional town halls held this weekend across the state. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG Data Services, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 30 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Join IHCA on Thursday, March 13, for ICD-10-CM 101 - Back to Basics for Home Health and Hospice. This virtual training will provide an overview of ICD-10-CM coding in the home health and hospice setting. Attendees will learn to navigate the ICD-10 code book, apply specific coding guidelines and accurately sequence diagnoses, including complications and comorbidities. This education is approved for 4.0 CEUs for nurses, administrators, social services and home health leaders.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill, sponsored by Medline, on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by this Friday, Feb. 14.
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Lawmakers across Iowa will host legislative town halls this weekend, providing an opportunity for constituents to engage with their representatives. Events will take place in Ankeny and West Des Moines on Friday, with additional forums held across the state on Saturday and Monday. Attendees can discuss key issues, ask questions, and connect with legislators in their communities. Check the full schedule for details on locations and participating state legislators.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG Data Services, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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IHCA is launching a four-part live webinar series designed to help long-term care leaders foster trust in their teams and organizations. Led by Jerald Cosey, founder of J.Cosey Speaks, "Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework," will offer a unique opportunity to learn actionable leadership strategies rooted in research from Harvard experts. The series will focus on the three primary drivers of trust: empathy, logic and authenticity, and will provide practical tools to strengthen leadership capabilities and improve team dynamics. This IHCA webinar series begins next Wednesday, Feb. 12, and is approved for 6.0 CEUs for activity professionals, nurses, social services, environmental services, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Grow your skills and spring into quality improvement at IHCA’s two-day, in-person 2025 Spring Education Conference. This conference, sponsored by BCG, will take place Wednesday, March 26 and Thursday, March 27 at Prairie Meadows Conference Center in Altoona and will offer over 25 timely sessions made specifically for long-term care professionals. This conference is approved for up to 10.0 CEUs for activity directors, nurses, social services staff, administrators, department heads, assisted living managers and home health professionals.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) are requesting Medicaid providers to complete a survey on Substance Use-Disorder Prevention that Promotes Opioid Recovery and Treatment (SUPPORT) Act Section 5042(e)(1)(A) reporting requirements for FFY 2024. The survey gathers data on providers’ compliance with prescription drug monitoring requirements when prescribing controlled substances. The survey will close on March 21, 2025.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) have identified an error in 1099-MISC tax forms sent to providers who received fee-for-service (FFS) payments in calendar year 2024. Forms postmarked Jan. 27, 2025, were issued with incorrect payer information and should be disregarded. Providers who received a form listing TIN XXXXX4568, payer name: Iowa Department of Human Services, and address: 1305 East Walnut will receive a corrected version.
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As an IHCA member, you have access to IHCA’s provider network – Iowa Health Care Quality Partners (IHCQP) – a collaboration of over 200 long-term and post-acute care providers. This network has been helping members for years by streamlining administrative processes, improving contract terms and providing valuable resources to support quality care.
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Several legislative town halls are scheduled across Iowa this Friday and Saturday, offering an opportunity to engage with state lawmakers. Events will be held in Allison, Ankeny, Manchester, Eldridge and other locations statewide, featuring discussions on key legislative issues. Attendees can hear directly from state representatives and senators on topics impacting their communities.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by next Friday, Feb. 14.
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Accommodations are now available for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 21-24 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel, located at 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Attendees can enjoy a discounted rate of $143 per night (plus tax) for single or double occupancy rooms.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced the release of the 2024 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Quality Self-Assessment. The HCBS Provider Quality Self-Assessment (form 470-4547) can be found on the Iowa DHHS website and is due this Friday, Jan. 31. The form has been updated and prior years’ versions will not be accepted. A complete and accurate self-assessment must be received no later than Jan. 31, 2025. Failure to submit by Jan. 31, 2025, will jeopardize an organization’s Medicaid enrollment, including managed care contracts, and may result in a sanction of payment suspension.
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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 Jan. 22 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed nursing board rules regarding education programs, continuing education, nursing practice and more.
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Join us for IHCA Day on the Hill on Wednesday, Feb. 19. Your participation is critical, as legislators need to hear directly from you about the challenges you face and the funding necessary to continue serving Iowa’s most vulnerable populations. Please RSVP for this event by Friday, Feb. 14.
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This article provides an overview of upcoming town halls. Events are planned for this Friday in Waverly, Monticello and Baxter, with additional town halls next week in Greene, Des Moines and New Hampton.
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Accommodations are now available for IHCA’s 2025 Convention and Trade Show, taking place Sept. 21-24 at the Des Moines Marriott Hotel, located at 700 Grand Ave. in Des Moines. Attendees can enjoy a discounted rate of $143 per night (plus tax) for single or double occupancy rooms.
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Navigating the world of long-term care (LTC) can feel overwhelming, especially with the variety of terms and acronyms unique to this field. To make things easier for professionals, caregivers and others involved in long-term care, we’re excited to announce the launch of our new webpage designed to clarify frequently used terms and acronyms.
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The U.S. Department of Labor and OSHA require employers in most industries to record workplace injuries on their 300 logs within seven days of the incident. The summary of this log, 300A, is required to be posted for employee review from Feb. 1 to April 30 each year. This posting is for the calendar year immediately preceding the year of posting (the posting in February 2025 is the log for calendar year 2024). Furthermore, most senior living communities are required to submit data from their 300 logs and 300A to OSHA by March 2.
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The CMS Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS) Guidance Manual directs clinicians to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) for determining the accurate answer for O0350, COVID Vaccination. Use this tool to summarize the current CDC recommendations for different types of patients by age, risk and vaccination status.
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On Jan. 16, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) issued two Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report (MMWR) articles describing changes in the 2025 immunization schedule for children, adolescents and adults. Changes related to older adults include new and updated recommendations for COVID-19 vaccines and pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCV).
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The Iowa Department of Inspections, Appeals, and Licensing (DIAL) recently launched DIALED IN, a podcast series designed to educate the public about the department’s work and its impact on Iowa’s health care and licensing industries. The podcast explores a variety of topics, from nursing home surveys and CMS performance measures to fraud investigations, administrative hearings and the health facility complaint process. Each episode provides valuable insights into how DIAL operates and addresses important issues affecting Iowans.
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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 Jan. 8 issue of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed Human Services Department rules regarding nursing facilities, facility assessments, intermediate care facilities for the intellectually disabled (ICFs/ID) and Early and Periodic Screening, Diagnosis and Treatment (EPSDT).
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Last Tuesday evening, Governor Reynolds gave her Condition of the State Address, where she discussed the strengths of the state and her policy initiatives for this session. This article contains an overview of her health care related recommendations and initiatives, as well as upcoming town halls.
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The Iowa Healthcare Credentialing Grant is open to eligible employers and accepting applications on iowagrants.gov until Wednesday, Feb. 19. The announced grant will provide $3 million in total funding to create new pipelines of workers to help fill high-demand occupations in the health care sector. Eligible high-demand occupations include registered nurses, licensed practical nurses, nursing assistants, direct support professionals, physical therapy assistants/technicians and more. An informative webinar for interested applicants will be held tomorrow, Jan. 23, at 11:30 a.m.
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Join IHCA next Wednesday, Jan. 22, for its virtual Workforce Management Conference. This program will explore strategies to address workforce challenges, including staff recruitment, retention and engagement and is approved for 5.0 CEUs for department heads, directors of nursing, nurse leaders, administrators, assisted living managers and home health directors.
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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 Dec. 11 and Dec. 25 issues of the Iowa Administrative Bulletin include newly noticed Human Services Department rules regarding eligibility, application for assistance, rent reimbursement, specialized managed care programs and more.
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Effective Jan. 1, 2025, Iowa Medicaid began using a new assessment tool for members enrolled in the Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Intellectual Disability (ID) Waiver. Iowa Medicaid has replaced the Supports Intensity Scale (SIS) with interRAI tools. Also, effective Jan. 1, 2025, managed care organizations (MCOs) no longer conduct assessments for members enrolled in the HCBS ID Waiver. ID Waiver members enrolled with an MCO will now have their assessments completed by Telligen, Iowa Medicaid’s core standardized assessment vendor.
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This week IHCA received notification from the National Veterans Affairs (VA) Office that modifications will be made to the 2025 VA Fee Schedule (VAFS) for home health providers in Iowa. Overall, most of the home health aide rates will experience a slight decrease (5.3%), rather than the 35% decrease in the initial 2025 rate file. Homemaker rates will experience a slight increase of 4.7%, rather than the 28% decrease in the initial 2025 rate file.
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As of Jan. 1, 2025, Iowa Medicaid will no longer cover over the counter (OTC) COVID-19 test kits. CMS ended coverage for OTC COVID-19 test kits on May 11, 2023.
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IHCA is launching a four-part live webinar series designed to help long-term care leaders foster trust in their teams and organizations. Lead by Jerald Cosey, founder of J.Cosey Speaks, "Leadership Foundations – The Trust Framework," will offer a unique opportunity to learn actionable leadership strategies rooted in research from Harvard experts. The series will focus on the three primary drivers of trust: empathy, logic and authenticity, and will provide practical tools to strengthen leadership capabilities and improve team dynamics. This IHCA webinar series begins Feb. 12 and is approved for 6.0 CEUs for activity professionals, nurses, social services, environmental services, department heads, administrators and assisted living managers.
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Stonehill Communities, an IHCA member, is a participating provider in the CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model program. Located in Dubuque, Stonehill is one of three providers in Iowa selected for this innovative initiative and will launch its program on July 1, 2025.
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As we kick off the new year, IHCA is excited to announce that the IHCA Education Center has been renamed the Brighton Consulting Group (BCG) Education Center. While the center now carries a new name, it remains the same trusted location members have come to know at the IHCA office, 1775 90th Street in West Des Moines. This change reflects the deep appreciation IHCA holds for Brighton Consulting Group and its long-standing dedication to the association and Iowa’s long-term care providers.
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The next CMS Home Health, Hospice and Durable Medical Equipment (DME) Open Door Forum for is scheduled for today at 1:00 p.m. Topics covered will include Home Health Care Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems (HHCAHPS) survey updates and the expanded Home Health Value-Based Purchasing (HHVBP) model.
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The December 2024 skilled nursing facility (SNF) survey trend report and Q3 home health (HH) survey trend report are now available in the IHCA Member Resource Center. These reports are member-only resources that provide listings of the most frequently cited tags and most common insufficiencies. Please share these reports with the individuals at your organization involved with managing survey quality, as they are a helpful resource when planning for future surveys.
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The 2025 Veterans Affairs (VA) Fee Schedule is now available. Rates went into effect on Jan. 1, 2025.
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On Dec. 18, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued Policy Clarification #PC00028, which reduces the allowable managed care organization (MCO) payment recoupment period to two years. The new policies, which apply to all MCO claims, took effect Jan. 1, 2025. IHCA is happy to have worked with the department on this needed change to the managed care system, providing needed relief on the administrative side of many provider’s operations.
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Join IHCA on Wednesday, Jan. 22, for its Workforce Management Conference. This conference will be offered in a hybrid format, meaning you can attend in-person or virtually. The conference will explore strategies to address workforce challenges, including staff recruitment, retention and engagement. This hybrid conference is approved for 5.0 CEUs for department heads, directors of nursing, nurse leaders, administrators, assisted living managers and home health directors.
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Recently, the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) issued Policy Clarification #PC00028, which reduces the allowable managed care organization (MCO) payment recoupment period to two years. The new policies, which apply to all MCO claims, take effect Jan. 1, 2025. IHCA is happy to have worked with the department on this needed change to the managed care system, providing needed relief on the administrative side of many provider’s operations.
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Iowa Medicaid and the Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) recently announced the release of the 2024 Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS) Provider Quality Self-Assessment. The HCBS Provider Quality Self-Assessment (form 470-4547) can be found on the Iowa DHHS website and is due Jan. 31, 2025. The form has been updated and prior years’ versions will not be accepted. A complete and accurate self-assessment must be received no later than Jan. 31, 2025. Failure to submit by Jan. 31, 2025, will jeopardize an organization’s Medicaid enrollment, including managed care contracts, and may result in a sanction of payment suspension.
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IHCA’s Home Health Final Rule 2025 education, sponsored by McKesson, is now available on-demand. This session covers payment changes, future changes to submission and data in the Outcome and Assessment Information Set (OASIS), as well as the new conditions of participation (COP) regarding acceptance of patients. This on-demand webinar is approved for 1.5 CEUs for nurses, social services staff and administrators.
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