A chronic illness is defined as a prolonged health condition often lasting for a year or more that requires continual management from a healthcare provider. Typically, chronic illnesses cannot be cured, but can be well managed with the right medical interventions, including lifestyle adjustments, medication,

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, six in 10 Americans are living with a chronic illness and four in 10 Americans have two or more chronic illnesses. “Chronic illnesses are not always preventable,” says Dr. Dimitri Alvarez, a family physician with Highland Medical, Pearl River Medical Associates in Pearl River, NY. “Some chronic illnesses can be linked to genetics and natural aging, while others are directly correlated to lifestyle choices.”

Environmental factors and socioeconomic status can also be linked to the development of chronic illness. Lack of access to healthy food, quality healthcare and education could increase the chances of someone developing a chronic illness.

While chronic illnesses can affect individuals of all ages, older adults are more likely to experience multiple conditions with additional health challenges. This may all seem overwhelming, but fortunately, there are programs to aid patients in managing their care. 

“At our Highland Medical internal medicine and primary care practices, we offer qualifying patients the option to enroll in our Chronic Care Management (CCM) program,” Dr. Alvarez says. “This program, developed and covered by Medicare, has proven to be very effective as many of our patients have benefited from the coordination of care and improved outcomes.”

Who qualifies?

• Patients with two or more chronic conditions expected to last more than 12 months or the lifetime of the patient.
• Patients with Medicare, Medicare Advantage Insurance, or other qualifying insurance
• Patients who have been seen in the last 12 months by their primary care physician*

*You may only be enrolled in a CCM program with one primary care physician.

Benefits of CCM Program

• Coordination of care with patients, healthcare providers (doctors) and care givers. Our team is trained to assist with transition of care. When needed, they help assure a safe discharge from healcare facilities to home.
• A personalized care plan with regular check-ins by dedicated nurses who can provide assistance between physician visits. That’s an effective way to improve quality of life and keep our patients out of urgent care and hospitals.
• Appointments and reminders
• Personalized education about your conditions and helps identifying resources in your community
• Medication Management; including medication refills and medication reconciliations

“Chronic illnesses can cause discomfort and severely impact a patient’s quality of life. We are pleased to offer such a comprehensive program to assist our patients facing the many challenges of living with chronic illnesses,” Dr. Alvarez says.
 

Enrolling in the Chronic Care Management program is easy. Talk to your primary care team during your next visit to one of our Highland Medical primary care locations. For more information about the Chronic Care Management program, or to learn about our primary care physicians and locations, please visit HighlandMedical.co.