CASL Selected by Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services to Test Medicare Dementia Care Model

Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model aims to increase care coordination, support for caregivers.

Chicago, IL — The Chinese American Service League (CASL) has been selected by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to participate in the new Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model. This national initiative supports people living with dementia and their caregivers by improving care coordination and expanding access to services like caregiver education and respite care.

“CMS is excited to partner with CASL 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.”

Through the GUIDE Model, CASL will create a Dementia Care Program that provides families with a dedicated Care Navigator to connect them with both medical and community resources, such as meals, transportation, and caregiver support. The program also offers 24/7 access to a trained care team and tailored education programs to help caregivers provide the best possible care for their loved ones.

“As the comprehensive social service agency serving Chinese and Asian communities for more than 45 years, CASL is proud to provide culturally sensitive care and support to clients with dementia and their caregivers,” said Winnie Lam, CASL’s Director of Clinical Services. “As the lead of Dementia Friendly Community – Chinatown, we are expanding services to ensure families have the resources they need to care for their loved ones with dignity.”

CASL’s participation in the GUIDE Model builds on its long-standing commitment to providing culturally responsive health and human services for individuals and families in our community. By joining nearly 400 other participants nationwide, CASL will ensure that caregivers in Chicago can access the same high-quality dementia care resources available elsewhere.

For more information about the GUIDE Model, visit: https://www.cms.gov/priorities/innovation/innovation-models/guide.