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

(Newark, Del.)- 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, personcentered 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.