Researchers cite four ways to include long-term care more effectively in healthcare reform efforts

A new report released Thursday by Georgetown Universityresearchers, in association with The SCAN Foundation, presents four possibleoptions for including long-term care services and supports in reformlegislation.

In the report, authors argue that the cost-effectivenessof health and long-term care services can be improved through increased home-and community-based care services and better coordination of healthcaredelivery in facilities. Their specific suggestions include expanding MedicaidHCBS programs; improving care coordination for dual-eligibles-seniors whoqualify for both Medicare and Medicaid; improving care coordination for seniorswith chronic conditions; and establishing a public long-term care insurance program.

Although the current version of the Senate Health,Education, Labor and Pensions Committee reform bill contains a program thatwould establish a national disability insurance benefit to help pay forlong-term care in the event of a disability, long-term care services andsupports have largely been overlooked in the healthcare debate. (McKnight’s,6/5) To view the SCAN report, “Long-Term Care in Health Care Reform: PolicyOptions to Improve Both,” visit www.thescanfoundation.org.