Working with a team of healthcare specialists is the best way to treat a new or ongoing health concern. Get to know the providers on your side.
When you’re preparing for surgery or dealing with a chronic condition, it helps to have professionals with different specialties on your side. This clinical care team can help you handle a wider range of concerns.
Clinical care teams are helpful when you’re recovering after surgery or a hospital stay. They can help you stay on top of your medications and follow-up appointments. And they can help arrange covered in-home care and extra support if you qualify.
Clinical care teams are also helpful in managing any complex condition. That includes chronic illnesses like cancer and mental health conditions like depression. The right team can help you create a personalized plan based on your care needs. It may range from a few health professionals to 10 or more. The size and mix of the team depend on your personal needs. Here are some top team players and their roles.
You can use your Blue KC Care Management app to stay on top of your medications, set appointment reminders, and even track your blood sugar levels. Download it today with access code kcwsqcare.
Think of your PCP as the leader of the pack. “You may have several different specialists who don’t routinely talk to one another,” says Teri Dreher, RN. These specialists will all have ideas on how to manage your care. Your PCP can create one plan from all their suggestions. They are your go-to when you have questions about your health or care plan.
Nurses are a great resource for many areas of your health. They can answer questions about your diagnoses and treatments, share ideas for making healthy lifestyle changes, and help you understand advice from other providers on your team.
Social workers can offer emotional and social support for you and your family. They can also connect you with other resources. This may include getting safe housing, healthy foods, and rides to doctor appointments.
Many people with chronic conditions experience anxiety and depression, including people with chronic pain. Depression and anxiety are also common after having surgery. You may benefit from counseling or medication. Consider reaching out to a psychologist, psychiatrist, or social worker.
A care manager is there to help you find your way in the healthcare system. They keep tabs on your medical records and log your progress. Along the way, they can help you stay on top of your treatments. They can also help you get more services and resources if you need them. Having trouble paying for care or medications? A care manager can help you find solutions.
Pharmacists fill prescriptions, check doses, and educate you about possible drug side effects or interactions. They can also suggest different medications if needed.
Sometimes after an illness or surgery, like a stroke or hip replacement, you may have trouble with basic life tasks. You might struggle to walk or get up and down stairs. Therapists can teach you these skills again. And they can help you get adaptive supports when full recovery isn’t possible. These are tools, devices, and machines that help you with daily living tasks. Examples include wheelchairs, scooters, and prosthetics.
Sometimes a change in diet is part of treating a health problem. That's especially true with conditions like high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, or even certain cancers. A dietitian can create a meal plan that is good for you.
Like the name sounds, a healthcare advocate is there for your support. They can help you figure out the right health benefits for your medical needs and the right questions to ask your clinical care team. You can also ask them to go with you to doctor’s appointments.
The key to getting the most out of your relationship with every clinical care team member is good communication. To build a strong foundation, ask these questions every time you have an appointment with a new clinical care team member:
When you have the right clinical care team working with you, you can rest assured you are doing all you can for your health.
Article source:
Teamwork in medical care: Harvard Medical School
