Big News for Wisconsin: Bark is now approved through IRIS (and CLTS)

Bark is already Medicaid-approved for children through the CLTS waiver in Wisconsin, and now we’re expanding that access across the lifespan. Bark devices and software are newly approved for purchase through IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct), Wisconsin’s self-directed Medicaid long-term care program for adults with disabilities and older adults. That means safer, independence-building technology is now within reach for adults with disabilities, not just kids.

What this means for Wisconsin families: If you or a loved one is enrolled in IRIS, you can now use your individual budget to purchase a Bark Phone, Bark Watch, or the Bark app as part of your Individual Support and Service Plan, alongside things like adaptive technology, personal emergency response systems, and other long-term supports IRIS already funds. For adults navigating independence – whether that’s living on their own for the first time, building daily living skills, or simply staying safely connected to caregivers and community – Bark provides real-time location tracking, contact approval, and monitoring across dozens of alert categories, all designed to expand independence without removing the safety net. It’s the same philosophy that’s already helping Wisconsin children through CLTS, now extended to adults through IRIS.

This growth is thanks in large part to the Wisconsin disability community itself. Bark is a proud member of WAFCA (Wisconsin Association of Family and Children’s Agencies), and we’ve had the chance to connect directly with families and providers at events with Family Voices of Wisconsin, the Autism Society of Greater Wisconsin, and Autism United of Wisconsin. These relationships have shaped how we show up for Wisconsin families, and we’re grateful for the trust and feedback that’s helped get us here.

Helpful resources:

• Bark for Wisconsin families — full details on devices and how Medicaid approval works
• Medicaid one-pager (PDF) — a quick breakdown of which Bark device fits which needs
• Watch the video — see Bark in action
• Read the original CLTS approval announcement — background on how this all started

FAQ

What is IRIS?
IRIS (Include, Respect, I Self-Direct) is a Wisconsin Medicaid program that lets adults with disabilities and older adults direct their own long-term care – choosing their own services, supports, and providers within an individual budget, rather than going through managed care.

Who qualifies for a Bark device through IRIS?
You generally need to: live in Wisconsin, be at least 18, be enrolled in Medicaid and IRIS, and have a disability or long-term care need that a Bark phone or Bark watch can support as part of your Individual Support and Service Plan (for example, safety planning, communication, or community participation goals).

How do I actually get a device?

1. Talk to your IRIS consultant about adding a Bark Phone or Bark Watch to your Individual Support and Service Plan.
2. Bark provides pricing and product details to include in your plan.
3. Once your plan and budget are approved, you can purchase the device through your IRIS budget.
4. Your device ships directly to you, with setup help from the Bark team.

What’s the difference between IRIS and CLTS?
CLTS (Children’s Long-Term Support) is Wisconsin’s waiver program for children and youth with disabilities. IRIS serves adults with disabilities and older adults. Bark is now approved under both, so families can get support through the full journey, from childhood into adulthood.

Which Bark device is right for me or my family member?
The Bark Watch is a great first device with simple talk, text, and location tracking, and no internet or apps. The Bark Phone is a full smartphone with customizable controls, monitoring, and screen-time management that can flex as independence grows. The Bark app is a software-only option for anyone who already has a device and just wants monitoring layered on top.

I’m a provider or IRIS consultant. How do I get a client started?
Reach out to andrea.bucci@bark.us for details on incorporating Bark into a client’s plan and budget.

Who do I contact with questions?

Email andrea.bucci@bark.us for anything related to Wisconsin Medicaid approval, whether you’re a family, an individual, or a provider.