Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) is a nationwide dementia care model launched by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). EmpowerMe Medical Group, P.C. is participating in the CMS GUIDE Model to improve dementia care through coordinated clinical services and caregiver support.
Through EmpowerMe 360, GUIDE offers continuous, specialized support from an interdisciplinary team. Eligible Medicare beneficiaries with a dementia diagnosis may qualify for participation in the GUIDE Model, which combines care coordination, 24/7 support, respite services, and caregiver education to enhance quality of life and reduce caregiver burden. We coordinate services to support eligible Medicare beneficiaries living with dementia and their caregivers. Services may include care planning, caregiver support, clinical assessments, and access to respite services.
Find out if your loved one is eligible for GUIDE.
Care Coordination & Management
EmpowerMe’s interdisciplinary team creates a person-centered care plan involving continuous monitoring and ongoing, longitudinal care.
Care Navigation
A dedicated Care Navigator works closely with the clinical team to coordinate communication, schedule appointments, manage medications, and facilitate referrals to community services.
Caregiver Support & Education
A program for caregivers that offers training, education, clinical and non-clinical resources, and caregiver support through professional care coordinators.
Respite Services
Eligible caregivers may receive up to $2,563 per year in respite services, such as in-home care. Final benefit amounts are determined based on need and CMS eligibility.
24/7 Clinical Support
Participants and caregivers have access to their clinical team 24/7 for questions, health concerns, or care coordination.
Caregiver Training
Gain on-demand access to educational videos, caregiver resources, and support groups covering topics such as dementia progression, communication strategies, safety tips, and self-care. These resources are designed to equip caregivers with practical skills and emotional support throughout their caregiving journey.
Medication Management
The clinical team regularly reviews prescribed medication as needed, while care navigators provide tips to successfully adhere to medication regimens.
Cost Coverage
GUIDE services are fully covered for Medicare beneficiaries who meet program eligibility criteria and are aligned to the model by CMS. There are no out-of-pocket costs for eligible participants.
GUIDE Eligibility
To participate in the GUIDE Model, individuals must meet all of the following: (Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Independent Living residents may qualify)
A diagnosis of dementia
Enrolled in Medicare Parts A and B
Not currently receiving Medicare hospice benefits
Have Medicare as their primary insurance provider
Does not live in a skilled nursing facility (Independent Living, Assisted Living and Memory Care are accepted)
Find out if your loved one is eligible for GUIDE.
Disclaimer: EmpowerMe Medical Group, P.C. participates in the CMS GUIDE Model. Final eligibility and enrollment decisions are made by CMS. This content is for educational purposes only and does not guarantee services or coverage.
Is there a cost associated with enrolling in GUIDE?
Is there a cost associated with enrolling in GUIDE?
There are no out-of-pocket costs for eligible Medicare beneficiaries enrolled in the GUIDE Model. While GUIDE services may appear on your Medicare Explanation of Benefits (EOB), they are fully covered as part of your Medicare benefits and include:
- Up to $2563 annually per qualified enrolled resident in CMS-covered respite services.
- 24/7 access to geriatric-trained physicians and nurse practitioners.
- Comprehensive dementia-focused care through provider consultations with 125+ medical specialties (i.e. psychiatry, neurology, etc.)
- Ongoing medication reviews and personalized support.
Why choose EmpowerMe as my GUIDE provider?
Why choose EmpowerMe as my GUIDE provider?
EmpowerMe is one of the largest and most established GUIDE providers in the country serving Medicare beneficiaries across all 50 states. Our broad coverage allows us to reach the majority of eligible individuals nationwide.
How long does it take to get enrolled in GUIDE?
How long does it take to get enrolled in GUIDE?
Enrollment begins with confirming eligibility. You can start by checking your eligibility or by calling (888)-697-4120. Once eligibility is confirmed, an in-home assessment (approximately one hour) is scheduled. After completion, results are submitted to Medicare, and enrollment is typically finalized within 2-3 weeks.
What are the eligibility requirements for the $2,563 GUIDE respite benefit?
What are the eligibility requirements for the $2,563 GUIDE respite benefit?
To quality for the GUIDE respite benefits, participants must:
- Meet GUIDE eligibility requirements and be in the moderate to advanced stages of dementia
- Have an identified primary caregiver (an unpaid family member or caregiver)
- Ensure the identified primary caregiver completes the required questions during the GUIDE assessment.
Can I choose my own GUIDE respite provider?
Can I choose my own GUIDE respite provider?
Participants may request a preferred respite provider; however, the provider must be Medicare-approved and contracted as a GUIDE Respite provider with EmpowerMe. If your preferred provider is not currently contracted, EmpowerMe can assist with onboarding them into the program. Simply ask them to Contact Us and partner with us
What happens after enrollment in the GUIDE Model?
What happens after enrollment in the GUIDE Model?
After enrollment, an interdisciplinary care team works closely with the participant and/or primary caregiver to coordinate services and maintain a personalized care plan. Services may include care coordination, caregiver education and support, respite service connections, medication reviews, and referrals to community resources such as transportation, housing, and meal services.
How does GUIDE improve access to healthcare for patients with dementia?
How does GUIDE improve access to healthcare for patients with dementia?
GUIDE enhances access by providing dementia-focused care coordination, caregiver support, and clinical services. EmpowerMe’s interdisciplinary team collaborates with a participant’s existing healthcare providers to ensure comprehensive, coordinated care. Services may include ongoing clinical assessment, respite support, and 24/7 access to interdisciplinary care team assistance.
Can we still join the GUIDE program?
Can we still join the GUIDE program?
Yes! EmpowerMe Medical Group is actively enrolling patients across all 50 states. Contact us to learn more or click here to complete an initial eligibility check.
What are the benefits for providers joining GUIDE through EmpowerMe?
What are the benefits for providers joining GUIDE through EmpowerMe?
You gain immediate access to a CMS-approved care model, robust care coordination infrastructure, and additional clinical staffing and support.
How does the payment model work for GUIDE participants?
How does the payment model work for GUIDE participants?
GUIDE is funded by CMS and services are fully covered for enrolled Medicare beneficiaries. No billing is sent to the resident or caregiver.
How can providers learn more about participating in GUIDE with EmpowerMe?
How can providers learn more about participating in GUIDE with EmpowerMe?
Providers looking to integrate GUIDE’s offerings into their community can connect with us for detailed information and support in utilizing EmpowerMe’s expertise and resources in dementia care under the GUIDE model.
GUIDE Partner Benefits:
- Up to $2,563 annually per qualified enrolled resident in CMS-covered respite services
- Additional interdisciplinary clinical resources tailored to participant needs
- Increased visibility as a dementia-capable company
- Consistent, data-driven outcome reporting for enrolled participants
Patient & Caregiver Benefits:
- Up to $2,563 annually per qualified enrolled resident in CMS-covered respite services
- No out-of-pocket costs for eligible Medicare beneficiaries
- 24/7 access to geriatric-trained physicians and nurse practitioners
- Comprehensive dementia-focused care through provider consultations with 125+ medical specialties (i.e., psychiatry, neurology, etc.)
- Ongoing medication reviews and personalized support
Becoming a GUIDE Partner Organization with EmpowerMe Medical Group, P.C. begins with contacting us through the link below, completing an online GUIDE Partner Application and Onboarding Packet, which includes the Partner Organization Agreement, a W-9, a Vendor Gorm, and your zip codes defining your service area. Once your completed materials are received, you will receive all the required training details. Simultaneously, EmpowerMe will submit your organization to CMS for approval, a process that can take up to 8 weeks. Once CMS approves your organization, your partnership is officially active and you may begin serving patients living with memory loss as an approved GUIDE Partner Organization of EmpowerMe Medical Group, P.C.