Support Planning for elders and people with disabilities
Guidance for LTSS program planning.
Final
Issued by: Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS)
Issue Date: April 15, 2016
Long-term services and supports (LTSS) can help elders and people with disabilities in your community live more independently. If your community has LTSS needs, creating a new LTSS program or expanding an existing program can meet those needs. The resources below can introduce you to the planning process and guide you through detailed steps.
Pre-Planning
If you are new to LTSS, prepare by learning the basics. Check out the LTSS Overview on what LTSS is and why it’s important. Consider what type of program is best for your community and how to finance it.
Learn about LTSS program types
There are two models for providing LTSS:
- Home- and community-based services (HCBS) are provided at a person's home or in a community setting
- Facility-based care is provided in a nursing home, assisted living residence, adult family home, or skilled nursing facility
HCBS is often the more affordable option and helps elders stay connected to family and community, while facility-based care may provide more comprehensive services in a secure living environment.
Be sure to plan for transitional care , which ensures continued services when patients move between a home-based care setting and a facility.
Learn about LTSS financing
Consider what types of funding are available and whether they are a good fit for your program. LTSS financing often comes from a variety of sources, and available funds depend on many factors, like what your state's Medicaid program covers.
In the LTSS Financing section, you can learn more about:
Start Planning
After you've considered financing and program model options, it's time to start in-depth planning.
The LTSS Roadmap is a step-by-step planning guide for addressing LTSS needs in your community. The roadmap helps you determine next steps no matter where you are in the process.
Evaluation
Evaluation plays an important role in maintaining a successful program once you have planned and implemented it. Get detailed evaluation assistance to guide you in choosing the right evaluation approaches for your community.
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DISCLAIMER: The contents of this database lack the force and effect of law, except as authorized by law (including Medicare Advantage Rate Announcements and Advance Notices) or as specifically incorporated into a contract. The Department may not cite, use, or rely on any guidance that is not posted on the guidance repository, except to establish historical facts.