Managing your health can be challenging, especially if you have two or more chronic conditions or illnesses. The Connected Care campaign offers information to help you take advantage of new Medicare services that pay for comprehensive care management particularly needed by patients dealing with multiple chronic conditions. If you have Medicare and live with two or more chronic conditions, you may be eligible for chronic care management (CCM) services to help you maximize your health and spend more time with your loved ones.

What does CCM mean for you?

• CCM means having a continuous relationship with a dedicated health care professional who knows you and your history, gives you personal attention, and help you make the best choices for your health. Connecting to a dedicated health care professional means you can better manage your care and spend more time focusing on your health.
• CCM means you and your loved ones have the assistance you need to manage your chronic conditions so you can spend more time doing the things you enjoy. Your dedicated health professional will help you keep track of your medical history, medications, and all the doctors you see. You’ll receive a comprehensive care plan that outlines your treatment plan and goals.
• CCM means having help on call 24/7 to address urgent needs from the comfort of your home. CCM includes 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-week (24/7) access to health care professionals for urgent needs, including a means to make contact regardless of the time of day or day of week.

Talk to your doctor or nurse

If you have Medicare and two or more chronic conditions, talk to your nurse or doctor about chronic care management services and how you might be able to get connected care. You may have to pay a copayment and/or deductible, depending on your secondary or supplemental insurance. Share this article with your friends and family so they can get connected to better care, too! Visit go.cms.gov/CCM to learn more about Connected Care.

The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of the Diverse Elders Coalition.