Iowa Wellness Plan

On May 23, 2013, the Iowa Legislature enacted the “Iowa Health and Wellness Plan”. This plan is a compromise between the Governor’s Healthy Iowa Plan and Medicaid Expansion. Beginning January 1, 2014, the Iowa Health and Wellness Plan covers all Iowans age 19-64 with income up to and including 133 percent of the Federal Poverty Level. The Plan provides a comprehensive benefit package and provider network, along with important program innovations that will improve health outcomes and lower costs. According to a 2015 Leavitt Partners report, "Regionally defined ACOs are responsible for coordinating beneficiaries’ care through PCP-led medical homes. ACOs and PCPs are eligible for three bonuses: meeting performance metrics, patients who receive physical exams, and outreach programs."

The program includes care coordination and management by Accountable Care Organizations (ACOs). 

• ACO’s are accountable under a contract for a set of quality and cost outcomes for the population attributed to them. 
• ACOs assist members by coordinating care through medical homes, engaging in proactive health care, preventive services, and member outreach. This will in turn increase quality outcomes and lower costs. 
• If the ACO is successful in meeting the quality and cost measures, they can receive a share of the savings that was achieved. 
• The program also provides incentives for members to engage in health and wellness activities through being able to have their monthly premiums waived.