What is meant by "care management" in healthcare?

Care management in healthcare refers to a collaborative and systematic approach designed to assess, plan, implement, coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the options and services required to meet patients' health needs. This process aims to enhance the quality of care while emphasizing the patient's individual needs and preferences. Care managers often work closely with a team of healthcare professionals, patients, and their families, ensuring that all aspects of a patient's care are well-coordinated and that the patient receives appropriate support throughout their treatment journey.

The goal of care management is to improve health outcomes by facilitating better communication among all parties involved in a patient's care, thus promoting efficiency in the delivery of services and preventing unnecessary hospitalizations or complications. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients with chronic conditions, complex health needs, or those requiring long-term care, as it helps them navigate the healthcare system more effectively.

In contrast, focusing solely on billing practices, limiting patient options, or reducing provider interactions does not align with the objectives of care management. These approaches can undermine patient-centered care and fail to address the holistic needs of individuals seeking healthcare services.