The Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) system is vital for many individuals and families, and measuring its performance is crucial for improvement. The Scorecard initiative operates under the core principle that effective management and enhancement of performance necessitate thorough measurement. Unlike studies focusing on specific aspects of LTSS, the Scorecard offers a comparative analysis of state LTSS systems across various performance dimensions. This comprehensive approach acknowledges the interconnectedness of these dimensions and their collective impact on the overall LTSS system. The overarching aim is to stimulate dialogue, encourage investment, mobilize diverse coalitions, and direct stakeholder attention towards elements that most significantly affect consumers and their families.
The SCAN Foundation is a key supporter of this impactful work, alongside The AARP Foundation, The Commonwealth Fund, and The John A. Hartford Foundation. The AARP Public Policy Institute (PPI) launched the initial State Scorecard on Long-Term Services and Supports in 2011, with ongoing efforts sustained by these foundations, including The SCAN Foundation. This pioneering project assesses the performance of state LTSS systems, ranking states against each other to elevate the importance of LTSS and drive action at both state and federal levels. By comparing state systems across multiple performance dimensions, the Scorecard underscores the holistic nature of LTSS and its far-reaching impact.
Key Updates and Enhancements to the LTSS Scorecard
The Scorecard is continuously evolving to provide a more accurate and insightful evaluation of LTSS systems. Recent updates reflect a refined vision of a high-performing system and introduce several significant changes to its dimensions and indicators.
One notable change is the evolution of the “Quality of Life and Quality of Care” dimension into “Safety and Quality.” This shift emphasizes the critical aspect of safety within long-term care services, alongside the ongoing focus on quality. Another key update is the transition from “Effective Transitions” to “Community Integration.” This reflects a greater emphasis on how well LTSS systems support individuals in fully participating in community life.
Furthermore, the Scorecard has incorporated 12 new core indicators to broaden its assessment scope. It also now features 11 indicators with data breakdowns by race and ethnicity, either displayed or used in score calculations, enhancing its ability to address equity in LTSS. Additionally, 5 indicators have been removed or replaced to ensure the Scorecard remains relevant and focused on the most impactful measures of LTSS performance. The introduction of Innovation Points and Performance Tiers further refines the Scorecard, allowing for recognition of exemplary practices and clearer differentiation between state performance levels. These changes, supported by organizations like The SCAN Foundation, ensure the LTSS Scorecard remains a valuable tool for understanding and improving long-term care across the nation.
