Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 2, 2018

By Andrea Nagel It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when managing multiple health conditions. Between doctor appointments, medications and a slough of other unfamiliar systems to navigate, feeling confused and a little lost is normal. Thankfully, a new care management program is available for those managing chronic conditions. “We’re here to assist patients and their families as they navigate the health care system and manage their care,” said Toni Wells, care manager with Kootenai Care Network. “I’m a resource for them to reach out to so they know they’re not alone.” As a care manager, Toni works with a variety of patients, caregivers and health care experts within Kootenai Care Network to provide more efficient, high-quality care. “As an advocate for patients, I work with pharmacists, primary care doctors, specialists, rehabilitation therapists and many others to coordinate patient care,” Toni said. “In the long run, that helps to prevent hospital Care Management Support for Patients and Caregivers Managing chronic conditions is easier with a team of experts by your side visits and decrease the overall cost of their health care.” Special medical needs One patient benefiting from this new care management program is Gwen Peterson who, after an extended hospital stay, now requires home health care and multiple therapies. “I started working with Gwen and her caregiver (Raquel Peterson) from the day she was discharged from the hospital,” Toni explained. “Together with a social worker, we were able to get Gwen health insurance and the resources she needs to work toward recovery.” Today, Gwen is living in a certified family home with Raquel and her family. There, she receives around-the- clock care for her special medical needs. Together Gwen, Raquel, and Toni manage all aspects of Gwen’s health care. “I don’t know what I would do without Toni’s help and guidance,” Raquel said. “I call her frequently to keep her updated on Gwen’s needs, and together we come up with a plan. We’ve been able to prevent any further hospitalizations and reduce Gwen’s pain medication. It’s been wonderful to see her progression and to have an immediate resource if we need it.” With over 35 care managers under the Kootenai Care Network umbrella, it’s getting easier for patients with chronic conditions—such as COPD, heart failure, depression and anxiety—to manage their health care. “It’s important for these patients to know they have a resource,” Toni said. “People don’t have to navigate this on their own. There’s an entire network of people waiting to help them.” Get connected To see if your provider is a member of Kootenai Care Network, or to find a provider, visit kootenaicarenetwork.org or call (208) 625-6611 . Gwen Peterson uses Kootenai Health’s Transportation Services to commute to doctor appointments in Coeur d’Alene. She and her caregiver, Raquel, work with a caremanager to coordinate her care. Toni Wells KH . ORG 15