Geriatric Care Management
Care managers provide guidance and advocacy for the older adult as well as assistance in providing the patient with the most appropriate care possible, while focusing the individual’s disease-specific needs. Care Management goals include the achievement of optimal health, access to care and appropriate utilization of resources, while fostering self determination of the older person to the greatest extent possible in decisions that impact his/her life.
Case managers are often employed by organizations that provide direct care such as hospitals, nursing homes, assisted living facilities, and continuing care retirement communities. However, case managers can also work directly for healthcare consumers.
A case manager hired directly by a healthcare consumer is paid directly by the consumer and fees vary by organization. Usually the initial assessment and coordination of care that directly follows is covered by insurance, consult your plan for details about these costs. Theoretically, an individual assigned to your case ought to reduce unnecessary healthcare costs, creating a personalized treatment plan that is both effective and efficient for the patient’s individual needs.
The clients of the care manager can include the patient, family members, other healthcare professionals and possibly others who play a role in caring for the older adult. Their unique role as a patient advocate allows case managers to determine the best treatment not only from a medical perspective, but according to the patient’s psychological, social and financial situation as well.
The Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers recommends asking specific questions when hiring a geriatric care manager.
1. What are your professional credentials?
2. Are you licensed in your profession?
3. Are you a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers?
4. How long have you been providing care management services?
5. Are you available for emergencies?
6. Does your company also provide home care services?
7. How do you communicate information to me?
8. What are your fees? (These should be provided to the consumer/responsible party in writing prior to rendering services)
9. Can you provide me with references?
On all levels - physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually, utilizing a geriatric care manager can bring peace of mind to all parties concerned.
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