It’s no secret that social factors can create sizable barriers for case managers who are working to prevent readmissions, plan for discharges, and meet length of stay targets. Unfortunately, government regulators often don’t factor these issues in when they are looking at quality measures. But that is starting to change.
A diagnosis in the emergency department is not always guaranteed, but reframing patient encounters can ensure patient needs are met, according to a study in Annals of Emergency Medicine.
Affording prescription drugs can be a challenge for many patients. Even for patients with insurance, cost sharing and copays can add up. To head off these potential problems, case managers are often tasked with identifying affordability issues and finding solutions for patients to help ensure they can comply with discharge recommendations.