Ohio's options for elders initiative: cutting corners or the cutting edge?

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Health Services Research
• Public Health Policy

Background:

• Community-based long-term care services are crucial for aging populations.
• Existing systems often lack comprehensive and rational service delivery.
• The need for cost-effective care management models is increasing.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate Ohio's "Options for Elders" demonstration project.
• To assess a new model for delivering long-term care services to disabled older adults.
• To determine the feasibility and impact of a single point of entry and tiered care management system.

Main Methods:

• The study evaluated a demonstration project with a single point of entry for long-term care.
• A telephone screening process was used for initial client needs assessment.
• Care management levels and services were assigned based on medical triage principles.

Main Results:

• The "Options for Elders" project implemented a unique service delivery system.
• The model involved a telephone screener managing initial client assessments and service allocation.
• This approach aimed to reduce the need for extensive in-home care management.

Conclusions:

• The demonstration project explored a controversial yet innovative approach to long-term care.
• The model sought to create a more rational and cost-effective system for disabled older adults.
• Further evaluation is needed to understand the long-term implications of this care management strategy.