New job as RN Care Coordinator for PCMH

[crazyrnmom]

Hi Everyone! I've seen some postings asking this same thing, but many were old, and this field is growing and changing quickly. I will begin this job on Monday, and although I know what my job description is.....I'd like to know what the "real" job is about. I worked at a hospital in Med/Surg/Onc for a couple of yrs, and then as the sole nurse in an Internal Medicine office for 7. I've done med management, teaching, drug and procedure PA's, referrals, and follow up in my old position....but this job pays way too much to truly be just those things. :) I will be working w/Medicare patients between 2 clinics (6 MD's in one and 7 in the other). What can I expect as far as stress level, and patient load? I'm recovering from breast cancer, and I need to keep my stress reasonable. I figured this would be easier on my body since I'll be at a desk. Are there any certifications or classes you would suggest? (I have an ADN) I feel like I need to excel in this position so I can be sure to put my family in a better financial position "just in case". Thanks for any help!

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

Don't know what PCMH is, but sounds like you need to hook up with the CMSA (Case Mgmt Soc'y of America) and start networking with your local peers. Also check out the classic Weed and Berens, as I often post. 3rd edition is current.

If you are going to be involved with Medicare patients you will need to find out about their supplemental insurance coverage and what that is for each individual when you are trying to coordinate care throughout the continuum. You will get to know the case mgrs at those HMOs for help.

[funnygirl_rn2]

PCMH stands for Patient Centered Medical Home; a new model of primary care with the aim of increasing quality of care and reducing ED visits and hospitalizations. It is a team approach (i.e. MD's, care managers, social workers and other health care professionals).

[funnygirl_rn2]

Which company? Thanks!

[nurseprnRN, BSN, RN]

You shouldn't be at a desk all the time, not a bit of it. You need to eyeball these people, assess their needs, talk to their families/caregivers, and maybe even attend some of their appts. You can't possibly do onsite case management (which, by definition, influences the course and delivery of medical care) without getting out there and seeing them with their physicians in action.