United Church Homes is expanding its services for older adults with dementia by participating in the new GUIDE model program. The organization was recently approved by CMS to join the program, which aims to improve care coordination for individuals with dementia.
UCH President and CEO Kenneth Daniel believes that the GUIDE model is the future of dementia care. By leveraging their expertise in service coordination and care offerings for those with dementia, UCH is well-equipped to enhance the quality of life for these individuals and their caregivers.
Through initiatives like the NavaGuide program and partnerships with institutions like Miami University of Ohio, UCH is dedicated to providing innovative care solutions for those with cognitive decline. The organization is ramping up services such as physician support, transportation, and nutrition management to help older adults age in place and prevent premature hospitalizations.
‘Growth opportunity’ for UCH
The GUIDE model, introduced in 2023, incentivizes companies to better assist individuals with dementia in living at home, including those in senior living communities. UCH has partnered with primary care physicians to support the rollout of the GUIDE model and ensure families and caregivers receive the necessary support.
Daniel envisions a future where UCH services can meet the needs of a wider range of older adults, including those who may be Medicaid-eligible. By participating in the GUIDE model, UCH aims to scale up its dementia-focused programming and provide cost-effective care to a larger population.
Over the next six months, UCH will work closely with CMS to receive referrals of eligible older adults for the GUIDE program. By January, the organization expects to be fully operational and actively engaged in providing care to those assigned through the program.
With the implementation of new payment models, Daniel sees an opportunity for senior living providers to diversify revenue while delivering impactful care to individuals with cognitive decline. The GUIDE model presents a unique opportunity for UCH to expand its services and improve the lives of those living with dementia.
