The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has been a huge challenge for case managers across the country. One of the biggest hurdles they’ve faced has been overcoming issues related to discharging COVID-19 patients in the midst of the outbreak.
Since the start of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, work has looked a little different for many case managers. “Most case managers that I know are working remotely at least half of the time,” says Diane Iverson, RN, BSN, BS, ACM, CCM, a case manager in the Baltimore area.
Case management lost a significant figure on August 30 when Karen Zander passed away at the age of 72. Considered a pioneer in the field, Karen devoted herself to advancing case management and making contributions and role modifications to match the rapid, changing needs of modern healthcare.
Sherry, a medical case manager with five years of experience, faces her most challenging role when her 87-year-old father, David, is diagnosed with the novel coronavirus (COVID-19). The initial fear she feels upon receiving this news is overwhelming, almost paralyzing, but she overcomes it and moves into action mode to ensure that her father receives the best care.
CMS recently updated its Care Compare resource, and case managers should familiarize themselves with this tool to learn how it might benefit their patients, says June Stark, RN, BSN, MEd, an adjunct instructor at HCPro, and an adjunct professor at Regis College in Weston, Massachusetts.
