Long-term care in North Carolina

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Public Health Policy
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Long-term care (LTC) is often viewed as custodial rather than healthcare.
• Excellent LTC should be preventive, accessible, and enhance recipients' quality of life.
• Major events and trends are reshaping the LTC landscape.

Purpose of the Study:

• To provide an overview of long-term care services and supports.
• To discuss current trends influencing the evolution of LTC.
• To highlight innovations and transformations in the field.

Main Methods:

• Review of major events shaping the current LTC framework.
• Analysis of current trends impacting LTC services.
• Inclusion of practical information on state programs and utilization tips.

Main Results:

• LTC services are evolving beyond custodial care.
• Trends include quality improvement, culture change, health reform, geriatrics integration, and home-based care.
• North Carolina is progressing towards an improved LTC system.

Conclusions:

• The framework of LTC services and supports is dynamic.
• Key trends are driving significant changes in care delivery.
• Ongoing efforts aim to create a more effective and person-centered LTC system in North Carolina.