News Report | December 21, 2020
Ohio Starts ‘Friendly Call’ Service For Lonely Nursing Home, Assisted Living Residents
On November 24, 2020, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) announced a friendly caller initiative to provide emotional and social support for Medicaid members living in nursing and assisted living facilities who are experiencing loneliness due to restrictions put in place during the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19). The program is particularly timely in that it provides a warm, social connection for many during the holiday season, a period in which depression and loneliness rise for those living apart from family and loved ones.
Since September, ODM and Ohio Medicaid managed care plans have partnered with the Area Office . . .