Care Assessments and Geriatric Care Managers
By Gilbert Guide, Gilbert Guide
Care Assessment and Geriatric Care Managers
A care assessment is a comprehensive evaluation that identifies the care needs of an individual. The objective of an assessment is to draft a plan of care, which is based on the health, social, emotional, and physical needs of that person. Two types of professionals perform care assessments: case managers and geriatric care managers (GCMs).
Case managers and GCMs are trained to recognize signs of specific care needs that may go unnoticed by nonprofessionals. In the long run, a care assessment can prevent frustrating wrong turns, save you time and money, and ensure that your loved one receives the appropriate care.
At an average cost of $300 to $700, a professional care assessment is almost always a worthwhile investment. (Care managers usually charge by the hour; the cost of an assessment depends on the amount of time it takes.)
Geriatric Care Managers
A geriatric care manager (GCM) is a professional advocate who helps your loved one and you lead the highest possible quality of life. Trained in any of a number of fields related to long term care, the GCM acts as your guide, identifying problems and offering solutions.
GCMs begin the process by conducting a comprehensive care assessment of the individual to determine his or her needs. GCMs often work with other long term care professionals to coordinate services as necessary to meet the specific needs of your loved one.
GCMs monitor care on an ongoing basis, modifying the care plan when appropriate. GCMs provide screening, arranging, and monitoring of the services your loved one requires, helping you avoid inappropriate placements and duplicated services. They also provide counseling, support, education, and advocacy, and may intervene in a crisis.
Coverage Options
Geriatric care management is strictly private pay. Medicare, Medigap, Managed Care, Medicaid, and Long-Term Care Insurance do not cover the service.
A local Program of All-inclusive Care for the Elderly (PACE) may cover a case manager as part of the interdisciplinary team serving each enrolled individual. For details, visit the National PACE Association.
While Veterans Benefits do not cover geriatric care management, they do cover Geriatric Evaluation and Management (GEM), a similar service that includes a comprehensive assessment of the veterans physical, medical, and emotional needs. The objective of the assessment is to build a customized plan of care that may include a combination of treatment, rehabilitation, and social services.
