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Whether you call it the trusted guide in a patient’s healthcare journey, the essential bridge to better health, or the supportive partner in managing chronic conditions, care management is the cornerstone of value-based care. Care managers play a pivotal role in helping patients manage their chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, depression, and more. However, their impact extends far beyond disease management.
At its core, care management is about connection and support. Care Managers serve as advocates, educators, navigators, and motivators, guiding patients through the complexities of the healthcare system. Their efforts not only enhance patient engagement but also support the other goals of value-based care by improving health outcomes, lowering costs, and fostering a more sustainable healthcare system.
Celebrating Our Care Managers at Netrin Health
At Netrin Health, our care managers exemplify this mission through their dedication to patient-centeredness. They are the driving force behind our efforts to empower individuals to navigate their health journeys with confidence and support.
As we celebrate National Care Management Week, we want to take a moment to recognize the incredible work of our care managers who make a lasting impact in the lives of our patients. Their compassionate approach not only helps individuals manage chronic conditions but also fosters a supportive environment where patients feel valued and understood.
Let’s read how our Netrin care managers feel about their jobs and the difference they make in patients’ lives each and every day.
Empathy in Action: Balancing Mental, Physical, and Social Needs in Patient Care
As a dedicated care manager, Shifna Mahadewa’s passion lies in supporting patients across mental, emotional, and social dimensions. She has always enjoyed being hands-on with patients throughout her career. As a care manager at Netrin Health, she interacts with her patients across different programs on a regular basis, addressing not only their needs related to their chronic conditions but also providing essential mental and emotional support during their times of need. She explains that this deep connection is why she pursued a career in care management.
What is your approach when working with a patient to ensure they feel supported?
I make it a priority to listen actively and validate their concerns. By creating a safe space where they can express their fears and challenges without judgment, I foster open communication. This openness encourages patients to share their needs that impact their health. Effective communication is key in identifying these needs and connecting patients with the necessary resources to support their well-being.
Given the sensitivity of social determinants of health (SDOH), how do you approach this topic in your care management?
Recognizing that social determinants of health (SDOH) can be a sensitive topic. I prioritize building rapport with my patients. I introduce myself and explain my role, emphasizing that I’m here to provide any assistance they may need. Ongoing touchpoints are essential in this process. Knowing that I am local and familiar with their environment helps foster a trusting relationship. This familiarity enables me to connect patients to relevant local resources.
The Importance of Timely Support
Shaquoya Robinson is a passionate care manager who is committed to making a meaningful difference in the lives of elderly patients. She takes pride in being a vital link between patients and their healthcare providers, ensuring that timely support is available when patients struggle to reach their healthcare provider.
What do you think patients appreciate the most about having a care manager involved in their care?
Patients truly value the extra support a care manager provides, especially when they find it difficult to communicate with their primary care provider’s office. Whether it’s a question about medication, assistance in scheduling an appointment with a specialist, or inquiries directed to their primary care staff, knowing that someone is there to advocate for them makes a significant difference in their experience. My immediate assistance alleviates their concerns, and ensures they are never left alone, receiving timely responses whenever they need support.
How do you build trust with your patients, and why is that important for their care?
Building trust with my patients is crucial for their care. I achieve this through consistent contact, whether it’s checking in with a phone call once a month or reaching out each time a patient is discharged from the emergency room. This ongoing communication fosters a sense of security and assurance. Being aware of what has transpired since our last conversation and asking about their progress is incredibly rewarding for both me and my patients – they truly appreciate this personalized approach to their care.
Bridging Barriers: The Impact of Social Factors on Health Outcomes
Sukhpreet Kaur is a another dedicated team member at Netrin Health who recognizes that health outcomes extend far beyond clinical care. With a keen understanding of the unique challenges faced by rural communities, she emphasizes that addressing social needs is a crucial factor in reducing emergency room utilization. She is committed to enhancing the overall well-being of her patients and empowering them on their health journeys.
What are some of the most common social barriers patients face when managing their health, and how do you help them overcome these?
One of the most common barriers is not having reliable transportation to doctor appointments. We work diligently at Netrin to help patients find transportation solutions, ensuring they can see their primary care provider for follow-ups and stay on track with their health management. Without addressing access to care issues, patients struggle to attend their appointments and well visits in a timely manner, which makes it nearly impossible to close gaps in care. This ultimately leads to them seeking emergency services instead of receiving the same care they could have received from their primary care doctor.
Transforming Patient Lives One Action at a Time
Samantha Rojas is a compassionate care manager who is dedicated to going the extra mile for her patients. She finds immense fulfillment in providing essential support, understanding that even small gestures can lead to significant changes in their lives. With a keen awareness of the challenges many elderly patients face, Samantha takes pride in bridging those gaps and ensuring that her patients receive the care they need.
Can you share a story where you went the extra mile to create impact in a patient’s life?
Recently, I assisted an elderly patient who felt overwhelmed and anxious about scheduling her necessary appointments with both her primary care physician and an eye exam. She shared with me how the thought of managing her healthcare made her feel helpless, especially as she juggled her responsibilities at home. By reassuring her that I was there to help, I stepped in to coordinate the appointments for her, taking on the burden she felt. I could hear the relief in her voice when I confirmed the dates, and she expressed how grateful she was to have someone advocate for her. While it may seem like a small step, facilitating those appointments not only alleviated her immediate stress but also empowered her to take charge of her health moving forward. This experience reinforced my belief that you never truly know the struggles someone is facing, and being a supportive presence can make a world of difference in their journey.
What advice would you give to new care managers just starting in this field?
My advice to new care managers entering this field is to treat each patient as if they were a loved one, showing them the respect and understanding they deserve. It’s important to listen to their concerns and do your best to help. If you encounter a situation beyond your expertise, don’t hesitate to seek assistance. Remember, being a compassionate listener can have a profound impact.
The Future of Care Management
Care Managers serve as essential links in the healthcare system. At Netrin Health, we take pride in the profound impact our care managers make in communities, helping patients navigate obstacles and creating lasting change in each life. Reflecting on the insights shared by our care managers, we recognize that their roles are essential in bridging the gaps between patients and providers. By prioritizing communication, trust, and accessibility, care managers will continue to ensure that patients receive the comprehensive care they need, leading to better health and well-being for all.
Are you a healthcare organization interested in empowering your patients’ health journey? Contact Netrin Health today and let’s make a meaningful difference together.