Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM)?
What are the benefits of using a GCM?
Do I need a GCM?
How do I find a GCM?
(Adapted from the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers.)
1. Why choose Pathfinder Care Management
2. What is a Geriatric Care Manager (GCM)?
Geriatric Care Managers are professionals who specialize in working with seniors and their families to coordinate their care needs. A Geriatric Care Manager may be a nurse, social worker, counselor, psychologist or gerontologist who has training and experience in working with older people.
3. What are the benefits of using a GCM?
Below are some of the benefits of using a Geriatric Care Manager:
- An increased level of independence for seniors through coordination of personalized services.
- Centralized communication for families who have long-distance caregivers and/or members out-of-town.
- Dramatic reduction of miscommunication and stress for both the senior and their caregivers related to inadequate services and uncertainty about the future.
- Cost savings by finding the most appropriate services for the senior's needs and eliminating duplication of services or services that are no longer needed.
- Increased clarity of medical and health care options based on insider’s knowledge of the health care delivery systems.
- Peace of mind knowing that a knowledgeable, compassionate and trust-worthy advisor is on your side.
- An objective viewpoint from a seasoned professional
- Highly trusted community referrals.
- Around the clock availability with a fast response to crisis or emergency situations.
4. Do I need a GCM?
Ask yourself the following questions:
- Are bills being paid on time?
- Are my parents safe at home?
- How can I help my parents maintain their dignity and independence?
- Are my parents getting the best possible treatment?
- Are my parents’ health concerns taking me away from my family?
- How can I cope with the anxiety, tension, and uncertainty I feel as a caregiver?
- Where can I find an objective third party who can help everyone agree on what is best for me and my family?
If the answer to any of these questions is “Yes,” you could benefit from hiring a Geriatric Care Manager. Please click here to request more information or to schedule a consultation.
5. How do I find a GCM?
Geriatric Care Managers can be found through the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers; by referral through your doctor, financial planner or other professional; through a nursing home or assisted living facility; by word of mouth; or in the phone book/Internet directory.
Before Choosing a Care Manager
Ask lots of questions before choosing your care manager. Start with the initial phone call. Is the call professionally answered? If you leave a message, is it returned promptly? Of course, this is an indication of the kind of professional relationship you can expect. In addition, you should also ask:
About your GCM’s qualifications
- What are your professional credentials?
- Are you licensed in your profession?
- Are you a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers?
- How long have you been providing care management services?
- Can you provide me with references?
About the services your GCM will provide
- Are you available for emergencies?
- Does your company also provide home care services?
- How do you communicate information to me?
About the GCM’s business
- What are the primary services provided by this agency/business?
- What other service does this agency/business provide?
- How many care managers are there in this agency/business?
- Is there a fee for the initial consultation and if so, how much is it?
- Does this business accept/pay referral fees?
Once You Have Found a Care Manager
When you have found an appropriate care manager, there will most likely be an on-site assessment. During the assessment, you will be asked to give the care manager an overview of the reason you are seeking help and introduce all the parties involved. Be sure to organize and bring all the information needed. If you have a specific issue that requires immediate attention, be sure to inform the care manager of this during the initial conversation.
After you have explained your situation, ask:
- What resources will it take to improve or resolve this situation?
- Are there any alternative courses of action?
- What are the advantages and disadvantages of each alternative?
- Who will be working with you?
- How many professionals may be involved? What about off-hours and back up?
- How are fees computed?
- How is travel time and mileage handled?
- How are services terminated?
The answers to your questions will assist you in determining whether that particular care manager and agency/business has the qualifications important to you for a successful relationship.
Discussing Fees
There are many different ways of charging fees and each care manager will choose to work differently. You will also want to know how often he/she bills. Some care managers bill weekly, some bill monthly, some bill upon completion of work. Ask about these matters at the initial conference and ask for them in writing, so there will be no surprises. If you don’t understand, ask again. If you need clarification, say so. It is very important that you feel comfortable in this area.
In addition to fees, most care managers will charge for out-of-pocket expenses. Out-of-pocket expenses may include charges for mileage, caregiving supplies, long distance telephone calls, and other such costs. Find out if there will be any other incidental costs. Note: There may also be additional fees if outside professionals are called into the case. It is imperative that the care manager receives approval to bring others in before the situation arises, if at all possible.
Be sure to discuss and make sure you have all questions answered before proceeding with an agreement for services. You should expect a written agreement including fees before the commencement of services.
Most Geriatric Care Management services are not covered by long-term care, private, or Medicare/Medicaid insurance policies at this time. Please check with your insurance provider.
Get It In Writing
Once you decide to hire a care manager, ask that your arrangement be put in writing, either as a letter or a formal contract. It should spell out what services the care manager will perform for you and what the fee and expense arrangements will be. Remember, even if for some reason your agreement remains oral and is not put into writing, you have made a contract and are responsible for all charges for work done by the care manager and his/her staff.
