Integrating advanced practice nurses in home care. Recommendations for a teaching home care program

MUCH, if not all, of the health service needs of the frail elderly can, and will, be provided in the community and at home. To be cared for at home is the overwhelming preference of the growing number of older people with chronic illness and those who are physically dependent-persons "aging in place" in their own domiciles, in naturally occurring retirement communities, and in public or privately funded adult housing residences and assisted living facilities. Medicare and Medicaid capitated financing is increasingly directed at programmatic and reimbursement initiatives that promote "independent living."