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October 2013
@HOMe Support Program pilot begins for Medicare Advantage members
Medicare Plus BlueSM PPO members living in southeast Michigan and BCN AdvantageSM members living in the Saginaw, Flint, Bay City or Midland areas who have been diagnosed with advanced or terminal illness may participate in a pilot program designed to provide them with specialized health care services and support.
The @HOMe (At Home) Support Program pilot started in August 2013 and ends December 2015.
A subsidiary of Hospice of Michigan, the program focuses on supporting members with advanced illness, their families and caregivers in the home by providing home-based clinical services, including coordination of care, assessment and counseling associated with advanced illness, informed decision-making and 24/7 phone access to a registered nurse.
@HOMe support staff members have extensive training in palliative management. Copayments for members receiving home care service by @HOMe Support are waived.
Disease-specific criteria include the following:
- Cancer: Any Stage IV disease
- CHF: New York Heart Association Stage III or IV
- COPD: GOLD Stage III or IV
- Debility: Multiple comorbid conditions contributing to declining status and limited life expectancy
The Blues identifies members based on claims and pharmacy data. Members may opt out of the program.
While there are no direct physician referrals to this program, if you have a Medicare Plus Blue PPO member who may benefit from this program, you may encourage them to call the servicing number on the back of their ID card to request more information.
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