Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model.
On July 1, 2024, CMS launched the GUIDE Model. This 8-year project will run through July 2031 to see if providing services in real time will help patients with dementia and their caregivers have an improved dementia experience. CMS wants to empower families to take care of their dementia loved ones at home and this model offers support on how to do that. CMS is offering up to $2,500 (depending on need) a year in respite care which can be done in the patient’s home, in day centers and 24-hour facility. Services include in-home caregivers provided by CMS approved Home Health Agencies. Arista Home Care Solutions is proud to partner with UTMC Geriatrics Department to offer this service.
Dementia affects more than 6.7 million Americans in 2023, with 14 million projected cases by 2060.
People with dementia often have multiple chronic conditions and receive fragmented care, leading to high rates of hospitalization and emergency department visits. They also may have behavioral health symptoms and often need 24/7 care. The challenges of managing health care, providing constant support, and dealing with the behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia can present a significant mental, physical, emotional, and financial burden for caregivers.
The GUIDE Model will set a standard approach to care, including 24/7 access to a support line, as well as caregiver training, education, and support services. This standard approach will allow people with dementia to remain safely in their homes for longer by preventing or delaying nursing home placement and improve quality of life for both people with dementia and their unpaid caregivers.
When used over time, respite services have been found to help unpaid caregivers continue to care for their loved one at home, preventing or delaying the need for facility care. The model is also designed to reduce Medicare and Medicaid expenditures primarily by helping people with dementia to remain at home, and reducing hospitalization, emergency department use, the need for post-acute care as well as long-term nursing home care.
Reference: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide
Downloadable Resources
GUIDE-Model Overview Fact Sheet