Advocates

This report compares strategies of eight states engaged in strengthening consumer participation in long-term care (LTC) policy advocacy. The authors identify several tips for states to encourage consumer advocacy with the goals of increasing the efficacy and accountability of programs. This paper is part of a project funded by CMS to study ways to create a more equitable balance between Medicaid funds for LTC going to institutional services versus community-based supports.

This book and corresponding materials present a strategy for improving the health care workforce serving older adults via expanded education and training, models of care, and public/private programs. The committee proposes a three-prong approach: 1)Enhance the geriatric competence of the entire workforce; 2)Increase the recruitment and retention of geriatric specialists and caregivers; 3)Improve the way care is delivered. The book is available free online or for sale in PDF or hard copy format.

This study examines dynamics affecting the direct-care workforce in Vermont. It found that only one third of those workers have employer-sponsored health insurance, one half of those surveyed expected to receive a raise, and 42% received formal job training. The report includes nine recommendations to strengthen the state’s direct-care workforce. In addition, the appendices include original surveys given to employers and direct-care workers.

States now have more discretion in changing Medicaid policies; consumers and advocates want to make sure they have a voice in that. This AARP Public Policy Institute Issue Paper examines the processes states have in place to solicit public input into Medicaid policy changes developed and implemented through Section 1115 waivers or State Plan Amendments (SPAs). Recommendations are offered on how federal and state governments can improve or enhance existing opportunities for public involvement.

The guide is based on the lived experiences of consumers who participated in uncharted waters with States during the Real Choice Systems Change initiative. It was written to demonstrate that partnerships can and do work effectively.

The fundamental structure to both of Oklahoma's Real Choice System Change grants is an infrastructure that supports a service delivery system that is accountable to Oklahoma long-term care stakeholders. Grant monies will be used to create and support an Oklahoma Partnerships consisting of consumers and advocates. This handout offers an introduction to the system and terms used in the grant partnership.

This group of presentations were offered around the state of Colorado in regional training sessions. The day focused on various aspects of consumer direction, including case managers, Medicaid options, and working with personal-care attendants. Other presentations include transitioning a child to consumer-directed health care and a presentation on the benefits, rights, and responsibilities of consumer direction.

This study was conducted as part of the Nebraska Nursing Facility Transition (NFT) Grant. The target population included children living in nursing facilities who meet the criteria for transition to home and community-based settings and children living at home identified as at-risk for nursing facility placement. The goals of this paper were to decrease the number of children in nursing facilities, identify risk factors, and to develop a plan to keep children in home and community settings.

Michigan developed a six-part training on transition and diversion. Module 4 presents the basic components of a successful transition. Again, person-centered planning is a main component of the transition and helps set the goals for the process, as well as an accurate way to gauge its success. In addition, this module discusses the need for housing, financial management, and transportation in a successful transition.

Michigan developed a six-part training on transition and diversion. Module 3 discusses outreach activities in nursing facility transition and diversion. It reviews different methods of outreach and how they can be developed to be effective forms of marketing. In addition, information for outreach contacts and resources is provided.