Progress on improved services for caregivers (originally provided by Michael Ellenbogen)

Lane Simonian

"The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS), announced its new dementia care model, which is intended to enhance the care and support for Medicare patients with dementia and their caregivers. The goals of the new care model are “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.”

https://www.hcinnovationgroup.com/policy-value-based-care/medicare-medicaid/article/53067725/new-medicare-dementia-care-model-announced-by-white-house-administration

The proposed changes look quite promising.

Iris L.

Thanks for posting, Lane. I read the wordy proposal. It mentions the proposal of a care navigator to be provided by community organizations. Will these care navigators be different from the Care Navigator provided by the Alzheimer's Association? I'm asking, will there be duplication of efforts? Are they asking for the new organizations to reinvent the wheel?

Iris

Lane Simonian

This is a great question, Iris. I am not sure of the answer. This may be a more expansive and direct service than that provided by the Alzheimer's Association. The program defines guide participants as:

"GUIDE participants will be Medicare Part B enrolled providers/suppliers, excluding durable medical equipment (DME) and laboratory suppliers, who are eligible to bill for Medicare Physician Fee Schedule services and agree to meet the care delivery requirements of the model."

I suppose this could include the Alzheimer's Association, but many other organizations and individuals as well.

Iris L.

Thanks, Lane. At least, somebody will be doing something.

Iris

Lane Simonian

Michael was happy to see some progress on this, too (and me, as well).