|
|
Questions To Ask When Looking For a Professional Geriatric Care Manager
Professional geriatric care managers have diverse experience, education, and backgrounds. Many are licensed in their state in specific fields (such as nursing or social work).
Geriatric Care Managers do not specialize in all areas. When a Geriatric Care Manager says s/he practices "care management," find out her/his areas of expertise. You will want to hire someone who regularly handles clients with similar needs.
Geriatric Care Managers who primarily work with older adults bring more to their practice than an expertise in geriatrics. They bring knowledge of aging issues that allow them and their staff to overcome the myths relating to aging and to focus on the problems at hand. At the same time, they will bring an experience of working with resources in your community. They are more aware of real life problems, health and otherwise, that emerge as persons age and the tools that are available to address those issues. They are also connected with a community of social workers, nurses, psychologists, elder law attorneys, advocates, and other elder care professionals who may be of assistance to you.
The National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers recognizes the following certifications (all of which require testing and continuing education):
- Care Manager Certified (CMC), from the National Academy of Certified Care Managers (NACCM)
- Certified Case Manager (CCM), from the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC)
- Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM) from the National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
- Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM), from the National Association of Social workers.
It is important for the wise consumer to ask questions. Some of these include:
- 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?
- Are you available for emergencies?
- Does your company also provide home care services?
- How do you communicate information to me?
- What are your fees? (These should be provided to the consumer/responsible party in writing prior to services starting.)
- Can you provide me with references?
|
