MOUNT CLEMENS – Macomb County Community Mental Health has been selected as a demonstration site for Michigan’s Integrated Care Project intended to strengthen support and services for persons who are dually eligible for Medicaid and Medicare. The Michigan Department of Community Health is developing the demonstration projects across four regions of the state.
By bridging the divide between the physical health, long-term care and behavioral health systems, the Integrated Care Project seeks to improve quality and access to care by more effectively aligning Medicare and Medicaid services. The demonstration will promote the use of a person-centered approach in all aspects of the new care system. Additionally, the demonstration will focus on increasing access to home- and community-based services, ensuring continuity of care during the transition to the new system and supporting self-determination and choice for individuals.
?Macomb County Community Mental Health is excited to have this opportunity to work with the state and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to develop a model of care that provides smooth and seamless access to services for persons who are dually eligible,? said John Kinch, executive director of MCCMH. ?We look forward to working with health care and community partners to improve service outcomes for those most in need of care in our community.?
“Macomb County is fortunate to have talented individuals directing our programs. This is good for the County, the program recipients and for the State of Michigan. A big thanks to John Kinch for his leadership,? said Macomb County Executive Mark A. Hackel.
There are four regions in the proposed plan: Macomb and Wayne Counties, the entire Upper Peninsula and a region in the Southwest part of the state. The MDHC selected the regions in consultation with CMS. Factors considered in selection included participation by rural, urban and suburban communities and consideration of historic health plan entity/health management organization regions. Approximately half of Michigan?s dual eligible population is included within the selected regions.
The MDCH is currently negotiating a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with CMS to outline state and federal responsibilities for the demonstration. Pending approval from CMS, the program will be implemented in January 2014 with outreach, education and enrollment to start in October 2013. The demonstration will initially operate for three years.
