The Iowa Compass resource database successfully transitioned to our new software platform on July 13! Thank you for your patience and support throughout this process. We’ll continue making minor refinements over the coming weeks to further improve the platform.
Exciting changes for Iowa Compass! The Iowa Compass Resource Database got a much-needed refresh and a brand new look. Iowa Compass made the transition to a new database software provider to create a more user-friendly experience for online searches and make it easier to find aging and disability information and resources.
Need help finding resources during this transition? As always, the Iowa Compass team will be ready to help:
The Iowa Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has released the updated Iowa Olmstead Plan, which provides a strategic framework to expand opportunities, improve service access, and enhance the quality of life for Iowans with disabilities.
The updated plan outlines how state agencies, local governments, and community organizations can work together to build a more coordinated and inclusive system of support. Through an emphasis on collaboration, the Olmstead Plan reaffirms Iowa’s commitment to ensuring that individuals with disabilities have the ability to live, work, and participate fully in their communities.
The plan identifies several Olmstead Progress Areas that guide this work, including strengthening community-based services, expanding independent living opportunities, improving access to housing and transportation, and supporting employment and wellness initiatives. These priorities reinforce Iowa’s dedication to advancing integration and promoting meaningful choice for individuals with disabilities.
You may access the plan and related materials using the links below:
2026 Olmstead Plan Summary & Resource Documents
Olmstead Plan and Stakeholder Engagement | Health & Human Services
Several code changes took place on January 1, 2026 related to HCBS Waiver. Please see the Desk Resource HCBS Waiver Service code updates for more information.
There will be no more “self-employed” CDAC providers registering with HHS as of December 31, 2025. CDAC is Consumer Directed Attendant Care and is the service of in-home Personal Care. CDAC is a service covered by all HCBS waivers except the Children’s Mental Health waiver. CCO will remain an option as will “agency” CDAC for the waivers that currently offer CDAC.
For more information, visit Individual Consumer Directed Attendant Care (ICDAC) Transition | Health & Human Services
You’re invited to the Iowa DD Council’s annual conference on September 16-17 at the Gateway Hotel & Conference Center in Ames, Iowa. Registration is now open!
This is a reminder that the contract with Boston University to provide ADRC No Wrong Door training through CADER will end 9/30/2026. There is still time to complete the 22-hour training! This training is designed to build foundational knowledge and applied skills in supporting older adults and people with disabilities. Topics include person-centered practices, behavioral health, long-term services and supports, and systems navigation. Please contact your supervisor on how to enroll in this training.