CHCS Monthly Update – November 2025
Center for Health Care Strategies
Better care where it's needed most
FOCUS ON • Supporting Older Adults in Rural Communities: Home- and Community-Based Care Models
Most older adults prefer to age in place, valuing their independence and community connections. However, for the more than 20 percent of older adults in the U.S. who live in rural communities, maintaining independence can be particularly challenging due to barriers such as limited transportation, care facility closures, and workforce shortages. Ensuring older adults can age at home requires targeted strategies that both overcome barriers and leverage the strengths of rural communities.
This Evidence-to-Action Collection features three proven care models that can be tailored to the needs of rural communities: (1) the Program of All-Inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE); (2) community-based palliative care; and (3) community paramedicine. State policymakers, health plans, providers, and community organizations can use this Collection to explore emerging evidence, case examples, practical tools, and policy considerations to implement these models in rural settings.
In a related blog post, the Center for Health Care Strategies (CHCS) spoke with Carrie Henning-Smith, PhD, MPH, MSW, co-director of the University of Minnesota Rural Health Research Center, who highlighted the opportunities and challenges rural PACE organizations face when delivering care.
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Upcoming Events
Developing and Sustaining Sobering Centers: Perspectives from California
December 4, 1:00 – 2:00 pm PT; 4:00 – 5:00 pm ET | Sobering centers provide a safe, short-term recovery environment for people under the influence of drugs or alcohol. This webinar will feature a panel discussion with a national sobering center expert and frontline staff from California-based facilities. Panelists will share insights into how communities can collaborate to support sobering centers. See also a recent profile and report on the benefits that sobering center programs offer to emergency services and law enforcement. Learn more and register
The Latest
Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Councils: A Guide to Evaluating Process and Impact
States are taking important steps to elevate Medicaid member voices. As Medicaid Beneficiary Advisory Councils (BACs) expand, evaluation can play a key role in strengthening their impact. By assessing both process and outcomes, states can improve how BACs function, enhance member experience, and refine future efforts. This tool presents strategies and examples to help states effectively integrate evaluation into their BAC programs. Read more
Features of New Integrated D-SNP Programs in States Transitioning from Financial Alignment Initiative Demonstrations
Integrating care for people who are dually eligible for Medicare and Medicaid has the potential to improve outcomes and care experiences for this population. Seven states that are operating capitated models under the federal Financial Alignment Initiative — Illinois, Massachusetts, Michigan, Ohio, Rhode Island, South Carolina, and Texas — will be transitioning to integrated D-SNP programs in January 2026. This fact sheet, developed in partnership by CHCS and the Bipartisan Policy Center, highlights key design elements of these states’ new programs. Read more
Using Provider Surveys to Expand Continuous Glucose Monitor Access in Medicaid
Empowering primary care providers to prescribe continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) can improve access for Medicaid members with diabetes. This tool explores how three states — Kentucky, New Jersey, and Texas — conducted provider surveys to identify opportunities related to CGM usage, providing insights that can support other state Medicaid agencies in surveying their primary care networks. Read more
Request for Applications | State Opportunity to Improve Maternal and Child Health Outcomes
The Center for Maternal and Child Health Medicaid Partnerships is seeking states and territories to join its next State Technical Assistance Cohort. The initiative — managed by Altarum, together with CHCS and other partners — will bring together state Medicaid, Title V, and CHIP programs to accelerate improvements in outcomes for maternal and child health populations. Cohort members will receive tailored technical support and participate in peer learning activities. Applications are due January 30, 2026. Learn more and apply
News & Notes
Career Opportunities
CHCS is seeking a Grants and Contracts Officer to support its finance team in managing grants and contracts, ensuring compliance with funder guidelines, and contributing to the overall success of CHCS’ national portfolio of projects. Learn more