There’s no place like home—and after several months in a care facility, Banner ALTCS member Paul Felicione, 81, is immensely grateful that he is back at home with his loved-ones. Banner Health’s nonprofit Medicaid plan, Banner – University Family Care/ALTCS (Arizona Long-Term Care System) made it possible. Banner ALTCS works to keep members healthy while effectively managing costs.
After suffering a stroke in 2023, Paul was taken to Banner – University Medical Center, where doctors discovered he had colon cancer. Following surgery, Paul needed a catheter and recovered in a skilled nursing facility. With other conditions including kidney disease, diabetes, hypertension and dementia, he then moved to assisted living with memory care.
Unfortunately, Paul struggled in the assisted living facility. He refused to accept food or care from staff members and lost 40 pounds. His wife Mary drove 15 miles daily to help her husband eat, shower and take his medications. Combined with high gas prices, the challenges of caregiving began to take a toll.
“Everything fell on me, and I’m not young either,” Mary says.
When Banner ALTCS Case Manager Sandra Afarin began working with Paul and Mary, she asked if Mary had considered bringing Paul home, since ALTCS services include home health care from a visiting nurse.
“I didn’t know that was even an option because of the level of care he needed,” Mary says. “Sandra explained it all to me and helped us find an ALTCS nurse to come to our home.”
Since moving back home, Paul’s quality of life has significantly improved. He eats well, regained his weight, goes for walks around his neighborhood and receives communion from a visiting minister. Sandra coordinates his medical care with his VA nurse and home provider.
“It has been a huge relief for everyone,” Sandra says. “The support he receives from his family is very important to ensure that he stays as healthy and safe as possible. And having him out of assisted living is cost-effective for the state and the health care plan.”
Paul is very happy to be home, and the whole family is grateful for Banner ALTCS and Sandra.
“She has helped us a lot and provides a great deal of support,” Mary says. “And Paul likes her. She has a way with him.”
“Being able to be here as long as I can with my family, that’s what I’m looking forward to the most,” Paul says. “I’m in my home with the people I love the most. If that’s not a blessing, I don’t know what is.”
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