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Consumer-directed services at home: a new model for persons with disabilities
1Department of Social Welfare, School of Public Policy and Social Research, University of California, Los Angeles, USA.
Health Affairs (Project Hope)
|January 31, 2002
Summary
New state programs empower individuals with chronic impairments through consumer-directed home care services. This review examines early evidence and remaining challenges for this evolving care model.
Area of Science:
- Health Services Research
- Public Policy
- Gerontology
Background:
- Recent expansion of state programs incorporating consumer direction for home-based care.
- Adaptation of consumer-directed models, initially for younger adults, to diverse age groups with chronic impairments.
- Shift in decision-making power from professionals to care recipients, challenging traditional home care structures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current understanding of consumer-directed care models.
- To synthesize research evidence on the impact of these programs.
- To identify key issues and challenges for policymakers and stakeholders.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of program and research activity.
- Analysis of policy implications and emerging trends.
- Synthesis of findings from various state initiatives.
Main Results:
- Growing body of research on consumer direction's effects is emerging.
- Consumer-directed models are being implemented across various demographics and conditions.
- Traditional home care agency models are being re-evaluated.
Conclusions:
- Consumer direction represents a significant shift in home and community-based services.
- Evidence is accumulating, informing policy decisions on program effectiveness and sustainability.
- Addressing remaining challenges is crucial for the successful integration of consumer-directed care.