When you're starting a population health program, a critical component is information?the data you collect to assess patient risk factors. Having a computer system to sort through information and help you identify high-risk patients is a huge asset to any program, says Gavin Malcolm, LCSW, director of Population Health for Broward Health ACO Services in Florida. "You have to be able to access and manage data to be successful," he says.
Technology is everywhere, including hospitals and doctor's offices. Studies have found that in some cases technology can be an asset to patient management, with remote monitoring showing promise in helping to reduce readmissions.
Your success as a case manager often depends on how well you work with others in your organization. At any organization, ensuring high-quality patient care, accurate documentation, and regulatory compliance takes a team effort.
At many hospitals the terms Utilization Management (UM) and Utilization Review (UR) are used interchangeably. Are they the same thing? No, they're not, according to Stefani Daniels, RN, MSNA, ACM, CMAC, and Ronald L. Hirsch, MD, FACP, CHCQM.
Case management in Alaska isn't for the faint of heart, according to Randi Ferrare, RN, BSN, interim director of case management and social work at Providence Alaska Medical Center. Some of the challenges force case managers at Providence Alaska to work a little harder and get a little more creative to meet the needs of its patient population. One innovative program at the hospital is its case management educator position.
