The Maine HIV/AIDS Medicaid Waiver Demonstration Project seeks to extend access to treatment to 300 individuals currently ineligible for Medicaid financial support. There are the two basic challenges facing the Waiver program: (1) keeping primary healthcare providers current with ever-changing HIV/AIDS treatment protocols, and (2) keeping clients adherent to the complex medication protocols. The success of the HIV Waiver program is dependent on the integration and coordination of the medical treatment and the social support aspects of program.
Since there was a strong desire to build on current systems, a coordinated system of care model was developed by two experienced Community Health Nurses in collaboration with existing HIV/AIDS service providers. It integrates and strengthens existing HIV/AIDS medical management and social support systems. Four basic strategies are used: q Linking the medical management system with the current HIV/AIDS case management system through the use of Advanced Practice nurses with specialized HIV/AIDS skills; q Improving case management skills and processes (implement new case management model); q Keep primary care physicians current with changing treatment protocols; and q Formalize linkages with Substance Abuse and Mental Health providers.
In order for the case managers to work more closely with the clinical aspect of the Waiver client’s care, Advanced Practice nurses will be link the medical management team and case managers. Through a variety of approaches (newsletters, seminars, clinical protocols, consultation, warmline, etc.) medical providers throughout Maine will be kept current with advances in HIV/AIDS treatment.
Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session the participant will be able to 1. Recognize the best practices of coordinated care programs; 2. Discuss the application of case management interventions leading to changes in client behavior, knowledge and status, and 3. Discuss advantages of a collaborative planning approach to successful implementation of a state-wide service-delivery approach.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Access and Services
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Maine Bureau of Health
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: I worked as a consultant to the Maine Bureau of Health for this project.