United Church Homes Selected by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to Test Medicare Dementia Care Model

In early September, United Church Homes announced that it 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) Model, United Church Homes 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 United Church Homes 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 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 help line; 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.

“United Church Homes is honored to be selected as a participant in CMS’ GUIDE Model,” said the Rev. Dr. Kenneth Daniel, CEO, United Church Homes. “This innovative program will allow us to enhance the care and support we provide to individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. By focusing on care coordination, education, and access to vital services, we aim to empower families to continue caring for their loved ones at home. Our participation in this model reflects our ongoing commitment to redefining care for older adults, ensuring that every individual receives the compassion, dignity, and support they deserve.” 

United Church Homes’ 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 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 health care providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and other practices. The 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.”