LECOM Health has 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) LECOM Health 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 for people living with dementia and their caregivers. 

“CMS is excited to partner with LECOM Health 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.”

The GUIDE Model was launched on July 1. The 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 help  line; and certain respite services to support caregivers. 

Individuals with dementia, along with their caregivers, will be provided with 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. 

"As a leader in healthcare and elder care, we are proud to partner with CMS on the GUIDE Model, further enhancing and expanding our dementia care services in Northwest Pennsylvania," said John M. Ferretti, President and CEO of LECOM Health.

More information on the model can be found here.