Authors

  1. Conway, Sarah J. MD
  2. Singh, Abhay BA
  3. Peterson, Cassy MBA, LCSW-C, CCM
  4. Dunbar, Linda PhD, RN
  5. Himmelrich, Sarah MPH
  6. Berkowitz, Scott A. MD, MBA

Abstract

Care management programs for high-risk patients have yielded inconsistent results in reducing health care expenditures. We reviewed the most successful programs and identified 5 best practice areas: (1) in-person patient meetings; (2) direct care manager/physician interaction; (3) provide transitional care services; (4) educate patients; and (5) provide medication review. We measured adherence to the best practices at baseline and at 6 and 9 months into the program for the highest-risk patients. The program increased adherence from baseline to each best practice area. Program enrollment increased at the 6-month follow-up but fell at the 9-month follow-up.