CARES Program Provides Innovative Support throughout Southwest Washington
The Medicaid Transformation Project (MTP) empowers organizations like Southwest Washington Accountable Community of Health to build powerful relationships in Clark, Klickitat, and Skamania counties. Among those programs is the Community Assistance Referral and Education Services (CARES).
CARES, a collaborative effort between Clark Cowlitz Fire and Rescue, Legacy Health, PeaceHealth and SWACH, work to reduce dependency on emergency services for non-emergency needs by connecting individuals to the proper services. Individuals dealing with long-term or acute health concerns often rely on emergency medical services for ongoing care. This creates a strain on emergency resources in non-emergency situations, while also not providing the correct type of care for a patient.
By relying on trusted individuals, including First Responders (EMS) and Social Workers, the program helps community members access the right services to meet their needs. Through CARES, Clark Cowlitz Fire and Rescue recently helped a woman who was struggling to manage opioid medications properly. While living with a friend, Emergency Medical Services were contacted several times after the medications weren’t taken properly, creating a need for immediate medical attention.
CARES was able to help bridge the gap for the patient to the services and support they needed. CARES provided prescription management education and made referrals to other organizations to help manage her care, including behavioral health services. They also were successful in making the necessary connections to help her start the process of finding her own place to live. Through the proper support, this patient can receive the appropriate resources that align with her unique situation.
The Role of MTP in Supporting These Partnerships
Collaboration is key to making these programs possible. CCFR’s partnership with SWACH proves that when organizations come together, real impact can occur. The Medicaid Transformation Project removes barriers to make that coordination possible.
MTP is scheduled to end in December 2022. With how helpful the program has been, the Health Care Authority (HCA) is applying to renew the project. If approved, this would fund the project through 2027. The renewal focuses on three important areas:
Expand coverage and access to care. This ensures people can get the care they need.
Advance whole-person care in important areas. This includes primary, preventative, home, and community-based care.
Accelerate care delivery and payment innovation. This would be focused on health-related social needs.
The project renewal, if approved, would allow SWACH to continue building these valuable partnerships. It would help us center our community’s needs, and help people access care. The HCA is asking for feedback currently on the renewal through the public comment period. This is a chance for individuals to shape the future of MTP.
We want your feedback in this process. By participating in the public comment period, you can help us advocate for regional needs. We have the opportunity to improve our community through the next MTP waiver.
The HCA makes it easy to participate in this process. You can participate in different ways, including:
Mailing letters to the HCA
Or sharing feedback with SWACH.
Complete details about the public comment period are available on the HCA website. Learn more about SWACH’s involvement in the public comment period on our website. Specific questions regarding the project or the public comment period can be sent to communications@southwestach.org.
