Contessa Partners with Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services
Today, Contessa Health, a subsidiary of Amedisys Inc. (Nasdaq: AMED), announced that it has been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to take part in a new Medicare alternative payment model aimed at assisting individuals living with dementia and their caregivers. As part of the CMS’ Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model, Contessa will join nearly 400 participants in developing Dementia Care Programs (DCPs) across the country. These programs are designed to improve care coordination and provide access to vital services and support, including respite care.
Innovative Support for Dementia Care
“CMS is thrilled to partner with Contessa under the GUIDE Model,” stated CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure. “This model represents a fresh approach to how Medicare compensates for the care of individuals living with dementia. The GUIDE participants are exploring new methods to support not only those living with dementia but also to ease the burden on caregivers, allowing more Americans to remain in their homes and communities rather than moving into institutional settings.”
Key Features of the GUIDE Model
Recently launched, the GUIDE Model will assess a new payment strategy for essential supportive services for individuals with dementia. Key offerings include comprehensive, person-centered assessments and care plans, care coordination, 24/7 access to a member of an interdisciplinary care team or helpline, and specific respite services aimed at aiding caregivers. A Care Navigator will help dementia patients and their caregivers connect with both clinical and non-clinical services, such as meals and transportation, through local community organizations.
Expert Team at Contessa
“Our team of nurse practitioners, nurses, and social workers has extensive experience in guiding patients and caregivers through the complexities of healthcare. With the GUIDE Model, we can leverage this clinical expertise to support dementia patients and their caregivers, enabling this vulnerable population to remain in their homes longer and enhance their quality of life,” said Gavin Baumgardner, DO, MHA, Contessa’s Vice President and National Medical Director of Palliative Care at Home.
Access to Education and Support
By engaging in the GUIDE Model, Contessa aims to provide individuals living with dementia and their caregivers with access to crucial education and support, including training programs on best practices for caring for loved ones. The GUIDE Model will also evaluate the impact of respite services, allowing caregivers to take necessary breaks from their responsibilities, thereby reducing stress and potentially delaying the need for facility care.
Diverse Collaboration in the Healthcare Sector
Participants in the GUIDE initiative encompass a wide range of healthcare providers, including large academic medical centers, small group practices, community-based organizations, health systems, hospice agencies, and various clinical practices.
Supporting National Healthcare Initiatives
This initiative is in line with the goals outlined in the Biden Administration’s Executive Order, which focuses on enhancing access to high-quality care and supporting caregivers, as well as the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
About Contessa Health
Contessa, part of Amedisys, provides comprehensive care at home. Since its inception in 2015, Contessa has pioneered a coordinated range of services, including Recovery Care at Home, Rehabilitation Care at Home, and Palliative Care at Home. By integrating key elements of inpatient care into the home environment, Contessa encourages partners to rethink the delivery of care. Utilizing Care Convergence™, a proprietary technology platform, Contessa delivers a seamless, safe, and cost-effective solution that significantly improves patient outcomes. The company collaborates with 11 health systems and multiple health plans, serving patients across nine states, and aims to provide a complete 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 is designed to improve care for individuals living with dementia by offering coordinated services and support to both patients and their caregivers.
Who is participating in the GUIDE Model?
Nearly 400 healthcare participants, including major academic medical centers and community organizations, are involved in creating Dementia Care Programs under the GUIDE Model.
How will respite services aid caregivers?
Respite services offer temporary relief for caregivers, helping to reduce stress and support their ability to care for their loved ones at home.
What services does Contessa Health provide?
Contessa offers a variety of home-based care services, including Recovery Care, Rehabilitation Care, and Palliative Care, employing advanced technology to enhance patient experiences.
How does the GUIDE Model align with national healthcare initiatives?
The GUIDE Model supports the objectives of the Biden Administration’s Executive Order on healthcare access and aligns with the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
