GUIDE Program

Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE)

The UConn Health Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Program offers personalized, team-based care for individuals living with dementia while assisting care partners through education, connection to resources, and ongoing support.

The GUIDE Model is a novel program developed by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) to provide comprehensive, coordinated services and support for people living with dementia and their care partners. The program aims to improve the quality of life for people living with dementia by reducing caregiver burden and providing support that helps individuals remain in their homes and communities longer. GUIDE services are fully covered by traditional Medicare for eligible participants. Participating in the GUIDE Program allows people living with dementia to keep their existing medical providers and benefits while adding an additional layer of support.

Launched on July 1, 2024, UConn Health became one of the first health systems in Connecticut to offer this unique program.

What to Expect at UConn Health GUIDE

Patients Receive

• Individualized care planning
• Services provided by an interdisciplinary team
• Ongoing support for symptom management and enrichment
• Care coordination across medical providers
• Medication safety reviews

Caregivers Receive

• An ongoing relationship with an experienced dementia care navigator
• Guidance with medical decision making and care planning
• Education and resources specific to dementia care challenges
• Nonpharmacologic strategies for addressing care challenges
• Connections to community support and resources
• Respite funds for eligible patients to use with partner agencies

As a patient’s dementia progresses, the UConn Health GUIDE Program’s approach also changes. The GUIDE team works together to ensure that care and support remain appropriate, consistent, respectful, and effective.

Who Is Eligible?

To be eligible to participate in the GUIDE program, an individual must:

• Have dementia of any type
• Live in the community, not in assisted living or memory care facilities
• Have traditional Medicare Parts A and B as their primary insurance. Individuals with commercial Medicare (Medicare Advantage) plans are not eligible.

If the preliminary eligibility criteria are met, an in-person or virtual enrollment visit with a provider from the UConn Geriatrics group will be scheduled. The UConn Health GUIDE team will then submit the required information to CMS for review and final approval.

What are the Benefits of Participating?

The UConn Health GUIDE Program provides comprehensive dementia care and helps patients and care partners navigate the complex healthcare system.

Benefits include:

• A dedicated GUIDE Navigator who conducts a one-time virtual or in-home visit and provides ongoing care planning to help identify and achieve individualized short- and long-term goals
• Ongoing telephone outreach and support
• Access to dementia knowledge and care strategies to help caregivers manage challenges and reduce stress
• In-person and virtual support groups
• In-person and virtual educational classes
• Coordination of community-based services
• A respite benefit for those who are eligible based on Medicare requirements
• 24/7 phone access

Answers to Common Questions

Do I have to live near UConn Health to participate in the GUIDE program?

GUIDE participants do not need to live near UConn Health Farmington to enroll. UConn Health GUIDE provides services statewide, except in Fairfield County. Before enrollment, the UConn Health GUIDE team will confirm that your ZIP code is within the GUIDE service area.

Will I be eligible for the GUIDE respite benefit?

The GUIDE Respite Benefit is available to enrolled patients who meet certain eligibility requirements. Not all GUIDE patients will qualify for the respite benefit.

Will I have to change my current doctors?

Enrolled GUIDE patients will be seen by a UConn Health GUIDE provider for an initial comprehensive assessment and annual visits. However, you will not need to switch to a UConn Health provider. Patients may keep any current providers, including primary care providers and dementia specialists.

Will I lose any of my other benefits if I enroll in the GUIDE program?

Enrollment in UConn Health GUIDE does not result in any loss of other benefits, such as state, federal, or VA-funded programs.