How Managed Care Organizations Can Contribute to MPAs

In response to this growing demographic, more than half of states have begun devising or considering what are known as Multisector Plans for Aging (MPAs) as blueprints for action and coordination on aging initiatives. Objectives and benchmarks among MPAs differ based on the unique needs facing older populations in each state, yet a number of common goals exist. To date, Managed Care Organizations (MCOs), such as Medicaid managed long-term services and supports (MLTSS) plans, have not been heavily involved in the development or implementation of MPAs. However, MCOs have a unique opportunity to contribute effectively to MPAs by aligning their expertise in care coordination and service delivery with the broader objectives of state MPAs. The Long-Term Quality Alliance, in partnership with West Health and the National MLTSS Health Plan Association, have developed this action guide to encourage MCOs to get more involved and support MPAs.

An MPA is a cross-sector, state-led strategic planning resource that can help states transform the infrastructure and coordination of services to address the needs and challenges of an aging population, as well as people with disabilities. MPAs are designed to create a coordinated system of high-quality care and support services that promote healthy aging, independent living, and social engagement, while also addressing issues related to health care, housing, transportation, and other social determinants of health. Please note that MPA is a general term, and states may have different names for them. Once a state has established the need for an MPA, they typically convene a diverse range of private and public stakeholders, including community members, to collaboratively address and improve quality and coordination of aging-related services. Stakeholder engagement ensures that public-private partnerships are successfully fostered, and that local and state priorities and services are aligned. Most MPAs address aging across the entire lifespan, rather than solely populations currently 65+. Funding for state MPAs can come both from government sources as well as private funders. Funders can ensure accountability by supporting efforts to collect and analyze data through public dashboards. Importantly, MPAs are different from State Plans on Aging. State Plans on Aging are mandated by the Older Americans Act and, in part, serve as a vehicle for reporting how states will allocate funds to administer the Older Americans Act in the future. MPAs are meant to be visionary plans aimed at reaching goals over a longer time period, such as 10 years.

Contact us

For questions, comments, or suggestions related to MPAs or the newsletter, please do not hesitate to contact us at MPA@westhealth.org.