Nurse Care Coordinators Bridge Gaps in Care
December 22, 2020By: Amy Bennett
Categories: Your Wellness
Whether you’re between doctor appointments, have been in the hospital or needed to go the Emergency Department, navigating your health can feel overwhelming. You may need to manage a chronic condition, such as diabetes or heart failure. You may be recovering from surgery, a stroke or a heart attack.
You can rely on a specially-trained Meritas Health care coordinator nurse every step of the way. They understand that new medications, a different diet, rehabilitation orders and other lifestyle changes are challenging. With their education and coaching, you can reach your health goals.
Led by your primary care doctor, a care coordinator provides free personalized care tailored to your physical, mental health and social service needs. Such total healthcare oversight:
- Helps improve your well-being
- Increases your safety by reducing dangerous medication errors
- Reduces your healthcare costs by helping prevent unnecessary readmissions and Emergency Department visits
- Helps you remain home and independent
What Does a Care Coordinator Do?
There is no short answer, but overall they:
- Contact you to discuss your health between your doctor visits, after you are discharged from the hospital or after you have been in the Emergency Department
- Work hand in hand with your doctor
- Provide education about your diagnosis
- Help with medication management
- Coordinate care between your primary care doctor and specialists
- Facilitate follow-up appointments with specialists
- Provide education on how to monitor symptoms
- Share coping strategies for a better recovery
- Assist with home health, skilled nursing and rehabilitation needs
- Provide guidance on:
- Community resources
- Financial assistance for medications
- Medical equipment
- Transportation to and from medical appointments
Please contact your Meritas Health primary care provider to request a follow-up withone of our care coordinators.