HHS and CMS announced their new Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, which aims to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia, reduce strain on unpaid caregivers, and help people remain in their homes and communities through a package of care coordination and management, caregiver education and support, and respite services. The GUIDE Model will be tested by the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI).
Through the GUIDE Model, CMS will test an alternative payment for participants who deliver key supportive services to people with dementia, including comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans, care coordination, and 24/7 access to a support line. Under the model, people with dementia and their caregivers will have access to a care navigator who will help them access services and supports, including clinical services and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations.
The model will provide a link between the clinical health care system and community-based providers to help people with dementia and their caregivers access education and support, such as training programs on best practices for caring for a loved one living with dementia. Model participants will also help caregivers access respite services, which enable them to take temporary breaks from their caregiving responsibilities.
CMS will release the application for GUIDE, a voluntary, nationwide model, in Fall 2023. Prior to the application release, interested organizations are encouraged to submit Letters of Intent to CMS by September 15, 2023. The model will run for eight years beginning July 1, 2024.
For more information, see CMS’ Fact Sheet on the GUIDE model. We will do a deep dive into the new model in our next edition of Home Health Today, our free printed newsletter for home health agencies. If you would like to join our mailing list please contact us with your agency’s name and address.