Understanding IRIS
Understanding the IRIS program Self-directed long-term care Medicaid waiver for eligible Wisconsin residents
The IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) program in Wisconsin allows you to direct your own services and support. IRIS recognizes that you are the decision-maker in your life. You determine your daily activities and the types of support or assistance you need to meet your long-term care goals with an established budget. Since 2008, Wisconsin’s IRIS program has built upon the belief that every person, regardless of age or ability, has the right to lead a meaningful life.
IRIS is Designed to Support Your Individual Goals:
Choosing where and how you want to live
Supporting your health, safety, and well-being in ways that work for you
Pursuing meaningful work, volunteering, or a fulfilling retirement
Participating in your community in ways that matter to you
Building and maintaining relationships that are important to you
Choosing how you get where you want to go with transportation that meets your needs
Live the Way You Choose
IRIS is Wisconsin's self-directed long-term care program for older adults and adults with disabilities. If you qualify for Medicaid and meet the program's eligibility requirements, IRIS gives you the opportunity to take an active role in planning and managing your long-term care services and supports. Both IRIS and managed long-term care options are available throughout Wisconsin, and your local Aging and Disability Resource Center (ADRC) can help you explore your options and determine which program is right for you.
With IRIS, you have the freedom to choose the services, supports, and goods that best fit your needs using a budget based on your individual needs. You'll also have the support of an IRIS Consultant Agency (ICA), like LSS Connections, to help you navigate the program, develop your plan, choose providers, schedule services, and make informed decisions giving you the flexibility to stay in control while receiving guidance every step of the way.
Helping you build your individual services & support plan
If you choose IRIS, you won’t be alone. Your IRIS Consultant will help you develop an Individual Services and Support Plan within a predetermined budget. Your plan will need to follow the guidelines of allowable support and services to meet your long-term care goals. Together with your IRIS Consultant, you will manage these goods and services to meet your long-term care goals and remain in the community.
For more information about the IRIS program, please contact:
Wisconsin Department of Health Services
Division of Medicaid Services
IRIS Program
201 E. Washington Ave.
Madison, WI 53703
DHSIRIS@dhs.wisconsin.gov
Call toll-free: 1-888-515-IRIS (4747)
For information on how to apply for the IRIS program, contact your local ADRC to see if you may be eligible.
Learn more about connections
For more information on Connections, call 1-844-520-1712 or email connections@lsswis.org.
