Can you get paid to care for a family member in Iowa?

Yes, through 2 programs we verified. In Iowa, people on a Medicaid HCBS waiver can use the Consumer Choices Option to hire their own workers, including an adult child or other relative. Iowa rules do not allow a spouse, or the parent or stepparent of a child 17 or under, to be the paid worker. The person receiving care must be enrolled in a waiver, which is managed through their Medicaid health plan.

Which Iowa programs pay family caregivers?

Consumer Choices Option (CCO) - self-directed personal care

• Type: Medicaid self-direction
• Who can be paid: Workers the member hires, which can include relatives other than a spouse or the parent or stepparent of a member aged 17 or under. Workers can be as young as 16.
• Who qualifies for care: Iowa Medicaid members enrolled in most HCBS waivers (such as the Elderly, Physical Disability, Health and Disability, Brain Injury and Intellectual Disability waivers) who choose to manage a budget and hire their own workers.

Attendant care (formerly Consumer-Directed Attendant Care) in HCBS waivers

• Who can be paid: Attendant care workers through an enrolled provider. Family-member rules are set in the state HCBS Waiver Provider Manual.
• Who qualifies for care: Members of Iowa HCBS waivers who need help with daily activities.

Are there national programs too?

Yes. Veterans may qualify for VA programs that pay or support family caregivers: Veteran Directed Care and the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers.

What should you confirm with the state?

Confirm the current rules for hiring family with your case manager or Iowa Medicaid Member Services (1-800-338-8366).