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

Today, Delaware Hospice 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 , Delaware Hospice 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 Delaware Hospice 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.

"As a participant in the CMS GUIDE Model, Delaware Hospice is honored to be at the forefront of enhancing dementia care nationwide,” said Delaware Hospice Vice President of Strategic Initiatives, Deb Haugh. “This opportunity allows us to expand our commitment to supporting individuals with dementia and their caregivers through a comprehensive, holistic approach. As we continue to serve Delaware and Southern Pennsylvania, we aim to improve care coordination, provide essential services like respite care, and empower families with the tools and support they need to live life to the fullest.” 

Delaware Hospice’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 caregivers continue to care for their loved ones at home, preventing or delaying the need for facility care.

Delaware Hospice offers respite stays at the Delaware Hospice Center in Milford and Delaware Hospice at Saint Francis Hospital in Wilmington. Short respite stays such as a weekend break allow the caregiver time to recharge mentally, physically, and spiritually, knowing that their loved one is in the 24-hour care of expert staff.

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://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide

Learn more about the programs and services Delaware Hospice offers by visiting: www.delawarehospice.org

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About Delaware Hospice

Since 1982, Delaware Hospice has provided the highest quality hospice and healthcare services and serves as a trusted community partner in end-of-life education and support. Our mission is to provide support to every individual, family, and community with compassionate and expert care for serious illness. Accredited by the Joint Commission and active members of the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization, Center to Advance Palliative Care, Delaware Quality of Life Coalition, and Alliance Kids Delaware Hospice continues to be a licensed, nonprofit, community-based healthcare agency serving Delaware as well as southern Chester and Delaware counties in Pennsylvania. Through our commitment to care for our community, we offer the following programs and services, many free of charge: Delaware Hospice, the Delaware Hospice Center, Katybug, Delaware Palliative, Delaware Transitions, Bereavement, New Hope, and Honoring Choices® Delaware. For more information about Delaware Hospice’s programs and services, upcoming events, or employment opportunities, call 302-478-5707 or visit our website, www.delawarehospice.org