New CHI report examines innovative ways to provide long-term services and supports while containing costs

Dec 8, 2011 - By 2030, nearly one in five Coloradans will be age 65 and older – 1.3 million people. Most of them will need some form of long-term care because of a physical or mental disability or condition. And many will turn to Medicaid for help. How can Colorado ensure the best possible care for its older population while holding down spending?

The Colorado Health Institute (CHI) has released a new report on long-term services and supports in the state. The report examines projected demographic changes, current services and how they are financed, and innovations that could provide cost savings and improve the quality of life for older adults.

"The task of providing long-term services for many of the more than 930,000 older Coloradans expected to need additional help by 2030 and beyond will be a tremendous challenge for the state and individuals," said Michele Lueck, CHI president and CEO. "Most adults who need this help receive it from informal caregivers, such as their families. Most public money comes through Medicaid. The rapid increase in the number of older adults will severely strain both segments unless we find ways to improve the delivery system."

The report discusses options being tried in Colorado and other states and at the federal level to address rising needs and costs. Among them are increased use of home- and community-based care, managed care, streamlined payment structures and others.

CHI is a nonprofit, independent health policy information resource for Colorado leaders. For more information on CHI, visit www.ColoradoHealthInstitute.org.

Contact: 
Deborah Goeken
director of strategic services
(720) 382-7094