About the Session:
Based on Medicare claims analyses, stakeholder interviews, and a literature review, AARP examined the early adoption of Caregiver Training Services (CTS) codes in Medicare, exploring the policy, operational, and cultural shifts needed to increase adoption and maximize effectiveness. Analyses indicate that given the newness of the codes, utilization has been limited in this early phase, and many stakeholders report still becoming familiar with the codes and how to operationalize them. Nevertheless, the cases of early adoption and findings from shared information demonstrate the potential for CTS to fill a long-standing gap in caregiver support.
This research uncovered five key enablers for CTS code adoption across health care payers, providers, and other key stakeholders: 1) clear guidance and communication, 2) open access, 3) aligned incentives, 4) integrated infrastructure, and 5) provider capacity. With this support, CTS codes can bridge family caregivers and the broader care continuum by reinforcing caregiver integration, expanding the breadth of services delivered, adapting to longitudinal needs and providing a model for reimbursing caregiver services under Medicare.
By highlighting early experiences with CTS, this publication underscores that effective policy relies on robust implementation. Realizing the potential of CTS presents opportunities for CMS and other stakeholders to align communication, coverage, and incentives. With shared commitment, CTS codes and associated services can serve as a meaningful tool to support family caregivers and strengthen care delivery.
About the Speakers:
Rita B. Choula, MA, senior director of caregiving at the AARP Public Policy Institute, drives the development of family caregiving initiatives by providing content expertise, both within AARP and in partnership with a range of external collaborators. Her work bridges policy and research to practice, centered on identifying and supporting needs of family caregivers. In collaboration with clinical experts and key partners, she leads the development of programs and tools that enable health care and social service professionals better recognize the range of needs of family caregivers and provide supports to them across settings.
Juliana Cuozzo, MSW, Policy Advisor at the AARP Public Policy Institute, focuses on developing policy solutions that address the needs of systems and providers to better support patients and caregivers. Her work aims to promote health care system polices that ensure older adults and those caring for them receive the resources they need. Before joining AARP, Cuozzo worked in government affairs for New York's largest home and community-based organization, advocating for policies supporting home care, hospice, behavioral health, and Medicaid. Prior to that, she worked directly with caregivers for those with Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias diagnoses, connecting clients to Long-Term Services and Supports resources throughout New Jersey. She completed her graduate practicum at an New York City aging advocacy organization focused on affordable housing and community supports for older adults.
She holds a master's in social work and policy from Columbia University's School of Social Work and a bachelor's in social work and gerontology from Syracuse University.
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