How a Care Manager or Independent Patient Advocate Might Have Helped Gene and Betsy Hackman

As we age, navigating the complexities of healthcare, long-term care planning, and daily wellness can become overwhelming. Could an independent patient advocate or care manager have helped Gene and Betsy Hackman?  

We now know that:

1. Betsy Hackman passed due to a deadly virus;
2. Gene had late-stage dementia;
3. Gene passed after Betsy, after being in the home alone for days, maybe even weeks.

What are Care Managers and Independent Patient Advocates?

A care manager (also known as an aging life care professional or geriatric care manager) is a professional who helps individuals and families coordinate healthcare, in-home support, and long-term care planning. An independent patient advocate similarly works to ensure that clients receive the best possible care by helping them navigate the medical system, communicate with providers, and make informed decisions about their health, though may also include services outside the scope of care management. In Independent Patient Advocacy, the specialty of Special Care and Aging focuses upon elder care.  

How Might an Advocate Have Helped?

For Gene and Betsy Hackman, a care manager or  advocate might have been a valuable resource in several key ways:

• Coordinating Medical Care and Appointments: Once Betsy became ill a care manager or independent patient advocate could have helped the Hackmans by:

1. 1. Scheduling and attending medical appointments.
   2. Ensuring clear communication between different healthcare providers.
   3. Keeping track of medications and treatment plans.
   4. NOTE: This level of support would have allowed them to focus on their well-being and provided peace of mind that their healthcare was being managed. 

• Facilitating In-Home Care Services: Again, once Betsy fell ill a care manager or independent patient advocate could have helped arrange services such as:

1. 1. Private duty caregivers for daily support.
   2. Home health nursing.
   3. Safety modifications to prevent falls and enhance mobility.
   4. NOTE: The Hackman’s and their family could have rested assured they were receiving the right level of care while maintaining their independence.  

• Advocating During Medical Crises: In this health emergency, having an advocate could have ensured that care decisions aligned with personal wishes. A care manager might have:

1. 1. Acted as a liaison between family members and medical teams.
   2. Ensured that treatment plans reflected the Hackmans’ values and preferences.
   3. Helped navigate insurance and financial aspects of care.

• Reducing Stress for Loved Ones: Even when family members are involved, having a dedicated professional to oversee healthcare and long-term planning can relieve stress. A care manager could have given the Hackmans and their loved ones peace of mind, knowing that their care was being handled by an expert.

The Value of Professional Care Management

Whether for celebrities or everyday families, a care manager or independent patient advocate can make a world of difference in navigating the aging process. By providing expert guidance, coordination, and advocacy, these professionals ensure that individuals receive the care they need while maintaining dignity and independence.

At Haven Healthcare Advocates, we specialize in helping individuals and families navigate the complexities of aging and healthcare. If you or a loved one could benefit from professional care management, visit my GNA Profile to reach out to me for more information.