Patients' lives were not shortened, the study determined: 26% of those receiving patient-centered management died versus
28% of those with usual management.
Many of the patients in the study had complex cases, often with a lead diagnosis of cancer, multiple comorbidities, multiple
providers, benefit issues, and, at times, end-of-life issues.
The patient-centered approach also has clear cost savings benefits to managed care organizations in decreased use of services
that otherwise result from suboptimal coordination of care.
Further, by improving communication and patient-education, unnecessary use of care resources can be greatly reduced. For
example, patients who understand how to stay well hydrated after chemotherapy are more likely to avoid unnecessary admissions
due to dehydration.
As managed healthcare executives weigh the contribution that case managers can make to their organizations, it's important
to recognize the value-added that comes with certification. Through certification, case managers demonstrate their capability
of handling the job of coordinating and facilitating patients' access to the right care and treatment, at the right time,
and in the right care setting. Along the continuum, CCMs improve the cost effectiveness and quality of care that is delivered,
and also enhance members' experience for higher satisfaction.
Michael Garrett, MS, CCM, CVE, NCP, RMHC, is chair of the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC), the first and
largest nationally accredited organization that certifies case managers. He is also vice president of business development
for Qualis Health in Seattle.
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