Contessa Partners with CMS for Dementia Care Innovation
![Contessa Partners with CMS for Dementia Care Innovation](https://investorshangout.com/images/blog/investors-hangout-newswire.jpg)
Contessa Collaborates with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Today, Contessa Health, a subsidiary of Amedisys Inc. (Nasdaq: AMED), announced their selection by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in a new Medicare alternative payment model designed to assist individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. Under the CMS’ Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, Contessa will join almost 400 participants in creating Dementia Care Programs (DCPs) nationwide. These programs aim to enhance care coordination and access to critical services and support, including respite care.
Innovative Support for Dementia Care
“CMS is excited to partner with Contessa 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 the strain on caregivers, enabling more Americans to reside in their homes and communities instead of institutions.”
Key Features of the GUIDE Model
Launched recently, the GUIDE Model will evaluate a novel payment strategy for essential supportive services for individuals living with dementia. Key services include comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans; care coordination; 24/7 access to an interdisciplinary care team member or helpline; and specific respite services aimed at supporting caregivers. A Care Navigator will assist dementia patients and their caregivers in accessing both clinical and non-clinical services such as meals and transportation through community-based organizations.
Expert Team at Contessa
“Our team of nurse practitioners, nurses, and social workers possesses significant experience in guiding patients and caregivers through the complexities of healthcare. Through the GUIDE Model, we can apply this clinical expertise to assist dementia patients and their caregivers, allowing this vulnerable population to live at home longer and improve their quality of life,” stated Gavin Baumgardner, DO, MHA, Contessa’s Vice President and National Medical Director of Palliative Care at Home.
Access to Education and Support
By participating in the GUIDE Model, Contessa aims to provide those living with dementia and their caregivers access to essential education and support, including training programs on best practices for caring for loved ones. The GUIDE Model also assesses the impact of respite services to help caregivers temporarily step away from their duties, thus alleviating stress and preventing or delaying the need for facility care.
Diverse Collaboration in the Healthcare Sector
GUIDE Participants consist of a broad spectrum of healthcare providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and other clinical practices.
Supporting National Healthcare Initiatives
This initiative aligns with goals outlined in the Biden Administration’s Executive Order focusing on increasing access to high-quality care and supporting caregivers, along with the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
About Contessa Health
Contessa, an Amedisys company, delivers comprehensive care at home. Since 2015, Contessa has pioneered a coordinated suite of services including Recovery Care at Home, Rehabilitation Care at Home, and Palliative Care at Home. By integrating essential elements of inpatient care services into the home setting, Contessa enables partners to rethink care delivery. Utilizing Care Convergence™, a proprietary technology platform, Contessa offers a seamless, safe, and affordable solution that significantly enhances patient outcomes. The company collaborates with 11 health systems and multiple health plans, serving patients across nine states, and strives to provide a full spectrum of care, from primary care to end-of-life support, all within the comfort of home.
Contact Information
Contact:
Nick Muscato
Amedisys, Inc.
Chief Strategy Officer
615.928.5452
Email: nick.muscato@amedisys.com
Kendra Kimmons
Amedisys, Inc.
Media Relations
225.299.3720
Email: kendra.kimmons@amedisys.com
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the GUIDE Model?
The GUIDE Model aims to enhance care for individuals living with dementia by providing coordinated services and support to both patients and caregivers.
Who is participating in the GUIDE Model?
Nearly 400 healthcare participants, including large academic medical centers and community organizations, are involved in developing Dementia Care Programs under the GUIDE Model.
How will respite services aid caregivers?
Respite services provide temporary breaks for caregivers, reducing stress and supporting their ability to care for their loved ones at home.
What services does Contessa Health provide?
Contessa offers a range of home-based care services, including Recovery Care, Rehabilitation Care, and Palliative Care, utilizing advanced technology to improve patient experiences.
How does the GUIDE Model align with national healthcare initiatives?
The GUIDE Model supports the goals of the Biden Administration’s Executive Order on healthcare access and aligns with the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
About Investors Hangout
Investors Hangout is a leading online stock forum for financial discussion and learning, offering a wide range of free tools and resources. It draws in traders of all levels, who exchange market knowledge, investigate trading tactics, and keep an eye on industry developments in real time. Featuring financial articles, stock message boards, quotes, charts, company profiles, and live news updates. Through cooperative learning and a wealth of informational resources, it helps users from novices creating their first portfolios to experts honing their techniques. Join Investors Hangout today: https://investorshangout.com/