Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model Aims to Increase Care Coordination, Support for Caregivers

Meritan, Inc. announced they have been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in a new Medicare alternative payment model designed to support people living with dementia and their caregivers.

Under CMS’ Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, Meritan will be one of almost 400 participants building Dementia Care Programs (DCPs) across the country, working to increase care coordination and improve access to services and supports, including respite care, for people living with dementia and their caregivers.

“CMS is excited to partner with Meritan under the GUIDE Model,” said CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “GUIDE is a new approach to how Medicare will pay for the care of people living with dementia. The GUIDE participants are envisioning new ways to support not only people living with dementia but also to reduce strain on the people who care for them, so that more Americans can remain in their homes and communities, rather than in institutions.”

Launched on July 1, 2024, the GUIDE Model will test a new payment approach for key supportive services furnished to people living with dementia, including comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans; care coordination; 24/7 access to an interdisciplinary care team member or helpline; and certain respite services to support caregivers.

People with dementia and their caregivers will have the assistance and support of a Care Navigator to help them access clinical and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations.

“Meritan has provided services to older adults for over 60 years,” said Melanie Keller, Meritan’s CEO/President. “This new program is a natural progression from our existing services. This fits within our mission of helping others to maximize their independence and well-being in the community with quality and compassion.”

Meritan’s participation in the GUIDE Model will help people living with dementia and their caregivers have access to education and support, such as training programs on best practices for caring for a loved one living with dementia. The GUIDE Model also provides respite services for certain people, enabling caregivers to take temporary breaks from their caregiving responsibilities.

Respite is being tested under the GUIDE Model to assess its effect on helping Memphis Headquarters 345 Adams Ave | Memphis, TN 38103 | 901.766.0600 | 800.487.5207 | meritan.org A United Way Member Agency | Accredited by the Council on Accreditation and the Accreditation Commission for Health Care | Serving AR, GA, MS, TN caregivers continue to care for their loved ones at home, preventing or delaying the need for facility care. GUIDE Participants represent a wide range of healthcare providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and other practices. This model delivers on a promise in the Biden Administration’s Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers and aligns with the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.

For more information on CMS’ GUIDE Model, please visit https://tinyurl.com/mufy9xxf