What is the IRIS program?
IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) is a Medicaid long-term care program for older adults and adults with disabilities in Wisconsin. This is an independently produced program. Autonomy means that IRIS participants or their legal decision makers are responsible for choosing the supports and services they need within their budget, adhering to the budget, hiring and managing providers, and following program rules.
Apply to IRIS
Target audience
Your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) or tribal Aging and Disability Resource Specialist (ADRS) can help you find out if you are eligible for IRIS. you must:
Must reside in Wisconsin. Be over 18 years old. Be an elderly or disabled adult. Be enrolled in Medicaid. Live in a home, apartment, adult family home, or residential care apartment complex. Be functionally qualified. The nursing function screen is useful for checking qualifications.
What services are available?
IRIS sets budgets for products, support, and services. You or your legal decision maker are responsible for selecting services based on your long-term care needs and outcomes. The plan's services must fit within your budget. You can choose from a variety of products and services, including:
structure
As an IRIS participant, you or your legal decision maker make all your own decisions. IRIS consultants provide support along the way. Joining IRIS comes with the following freedoms and responsibilities:
Manage your own spending choices. Plan and spend your IRIS budget. Select your service provider. Manage your employees.
Learn more about IRIS self-direction.
support from others
Joining IRIS doesn't mean doing everything alone. There will be people to help you along the way. Both your IRIS consultant agency and your accounting employer agency will be able to assist you.
cost
IRIS is a Medicaid program. There is no cost to participate.
Some people may have to pay a monthly payment called a cost share. Your cost-sharing amount is based on your income and determines your eligibility for Medicaid and IRIS. If you are responsible for the costs, you will receive a monthly invoice from your accounting employer's representative. Payment must be made by the due date. Failure to do so may result in termination of your enrollment in the IRIS program.
Who to contact if you need help
IRIS participants
If you are already an IRIS member and need assistance, please contact an IRIS consultant. You can also contact the IRIS Call Center. 888-515-4747.
general questions
Email: Wisconsin Department of Health Services
Medicaid Services Department
IRIS Management Division
201 E. Washington Ave.
P.O. Box 309
Madison Wisconsin 53701-0309
phone: 888-515-4747
Fax: 608-224-5727
Email: DHSIRIS@wisconsin.gov
