Iowa Administrative Code Agency 481 - Inspections and Appeals Department
Iowa Administrative Code – Agency 481: Inspections and Appeals Department
The Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals (DIA), codified under Agency 481 in the Iowa Administrative Code (IAC), is a multifaceted regulatory agency with responsibilities in licensing, regulation, investigation, and enforcement across various sectors. Here's an overview of its primary areas of jurisdiction and responsibilities:
Key Divisions and Functions:
Health Facilities Division
Licenses and regulates health care facilities including:
Nursing facilities
Residential care facilities
Intermediate care facilities
Hospices, assisted living, and elder group homes
Ensures compliance with both federal and state regulations.
Administrative Hearings Division
Conducts contested case hearings for multiple state agencies (e.g., DHS, IDPH).
Provides independent administrative law judges (ALJs) for fair and impartial rulings.
Investigations Division
Includes the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) and other investigative teams.
Investigates fraud, abuse, and waste, particularly in publicly funded programs like Medicaid.
Food and Consumer Safety Bureau
Oversees licensing and inspection of:
Restaurants
Grocery stores
Food processing plants
Hotels and motels
Tattoo parlors and tanning facilities
Often works in cooperation with local public health agencies.
Social and Charitable Gambling Unit
Regulates licensed gambling activities such as:
Bingo
Raffles
Carnival games
Amusement devices
Ensures compliance with Iowa gambling laws and fair practices.
Appeals and Fair Hearings
Hears appeals related to:
Medicaid
SNAP (food assistance)
Childcare assistance
Other public assistance benefits
Offers due process to Iowans challenging agency decisions.
Legal Authority and Rules
The Department’s rules are located under Iowa Administrative Code [481], which includes numerous chapters divided by subject area. These rules detail:
Licensing requirements
Inspection standards
Enforcement mechanisms
Appeal procedures
Health and safety codes
You can access the official, up-to-date text
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