Earlier today, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) announced that it is now accepting applications for the Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, a package of care coordination and management, caregiver education and support, and respite services 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.
The GUIDE model is primarily focused on better supporting caregivers of people with dementia through care coordination (primary and behavioral health services). It calls for providing a care navigator to help access services and supports, including clinical services and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations. GUIDE will be tested nationwide from 2024-2032 as a voluntary alternative payment model (APM) through the CMS Center for Medicare and Medicaid Innovation (CMMI). The model will launch on July 1, 2024.
Qualified participating health care providers will deliver comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans, care coordination, and 24/7 access to a support line. Providers eligible to be GUIDE participants are Medicare Part B-enrolled providers and suppliers. If an applicant cannot meet the GUIDE care delivery requirements alone, they may contract with another Medicare provider/supplier to meet the care delivery requirements.
CMS encourages eligible applicants to initiate the application process as soon as possible to familiarize themselves with the model requirements and application process. The application deadline is January 30, 2024.
For additional information, see the GUIDE Model Fact Sheet, FAQ, and press release.