January 14, 2026
Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model
The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience (GUIDE) Model is a voluntary nationwide model test that aims to support people with dementia and their unpaid caregivers. The model began on July 1, 2024, and will run for eight years. On July 8, 2025, CMS announced 330 organizations participating in the model and published the GUIDE Participant List
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The GUIDE Model focuses on comprehensive, coordinated dementia care and aims to improve quality of life for people with dementia, reduce strain on their unpaid caregivers, and enable people with dementia to remain in their homes and communities. It will achieve these goals through Medicare payments for a comprehensive package of care coordination and care management, caregiver education and support, and respite services.
The GUIDE Model will set a standard approach to care, including 24/7 access to a support line, as well as caregiver training, education, and support services. This standard approach will allow people with dementia to remain safely in their homes for longer by preventing or delaying nursing home placement and improve quality of life for both people with dementia and their unpaid caregivers.
Participants in the GUIDE Model are Medicare Part B enrolled providers/suppliers and will establish dementia care programs (DCPs) that provide ongoing, longitudinal care and support to people with dementia through an interdisciplinary team.
Learn more:
- CMS Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model
webpage - GUIDE Model Overview Fact Sheet

- GUIDE Model Overview Fact Sheet MLN7172818

- GUIDE Model Dementia Pathways Infographic

- GUIDE Model Frequently Asked Questions

- GUIDE Participant List

If you are interested in receiving additional information, updates or have questions about the GUIDE Model, please see the resources below:
- Email: GUIDEModelTeam@cms.hhs.gov
- Sign Up for Email Updates
from the GUIDE Model team

