To mark Older Americans Month, the Voices for Better Health project has debuted a new video highlighting an important strategy to improve the health and well-being of vulnerable older adults. “Building Bridges to Better Health” tells the story of an innovative collaboration between consumer advocates and providers to infuse geriatrics best practices into the Demonstration Projects for people with both Medicare and Medicaid (dual eligibles).
Working nationally and with Voices for Better Health state partners, this powerful partnership draws on the expertise of leaders in the geriatrics community – physicians, gerontologists, nurses, social workers and other providers and researchers – sharing best practices to improve efficiency, quality and outcomes in the demonstration projects. This collaboration has increased the effectiveness of state advocacy efforts around these demonstrations. With people of color making up a disproportionately large percentage of the dually eligible population, we also see this work as helping to build another important bridge – to health equity for all.
While “Building Bridges” focuses on the dual demonstration projects, it affirms that breaking down silos and strengthening alliances with providers is an indispensable approach to creating a path to a people-centered health system, both for older Americans, and those of all ages.