CareAtHome Medical Group, alongside Vesta Healthcare, has been chosen by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in the innovative GUIDE Model, starting July 2025. This Medicare alternative payment model aims to support individuals with dementia and their caregivers nationwide through the development of Dementia Care Programs (DCPs). Nearly 400 participants, including CareAtHome, will collaborate to enhance care coordination and expand access to services such as respite care.
CMS Administrator Chiquita Brooks-LaSure expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “CMS is excited to partner with CareAtHome and Vesta Healthcare under the GUIDE Model. This initiative represents a new approach to dementia care payment under Medicare, aiming to reduce caregiver strain and enable more individuals to remain at home and within their communities.”
The GUIDE Model, launched on July 1, 2024, introduces a novel payment structure supporting essential services for individuals with dementia. These include comprehensive assessments, personalized care plans, care coordination, 24/7 access to care team members, and respite services. Care Navigators will assist patients and caregivers in accessing clinical and non-clinical services, such as meals and transportation, through community-based organizations.
Randy Klein, CEO of Vesta Healthcare, emphasized, “We are proud to contribute to this innovative program that enhances resources for dementia patients and caregivers. The GUIDE model’s focus on caregiver support will empower patients to manage their health and maintain independence at home.”
Participation in the GUIDE Model will provide educational opportunities and support for caregivers, including training on best practices in dementia care. Additionally, the model includes respite services to offer caregivers temporary relief, thereby potentially delaying the need for institutional care.
The GUIDE Model underscores commitments outlined in the Biden Administration’s Executive Order on Increasing Access to High-Quality Care and Supporting Caregivers, aligning with the National Plan to Address Alzheimer’s Disease.
