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November 12, 2026
Thursday, November 12, 2026, 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
The Long Term Care Discussion Group
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 deliver.
About the Speakers:
- Rita B. Choula, MA is the senior director of caregiving at the AARP Public Policy Institute. In her role, she 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.
- Juliana Cuozzo, MSW, is a Policy Advisor at the AARP Public Policy Institute. She 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.
Accessing the Meeting: REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED for Caregiver Training.
