June 11, 2004

PrimeCare Elder Service Program expands and introduces website

The MGH PrimeCare program — an elder care program that serves MGH
patients, physicians, employees and their families — recently has expanded its
services and support following a successful six-month development effort.
The PrimeCare program can make a significant difference in the lives of elders and their families. It is designed to support elders and caregivers facing new and challenging daily living and/or care issues. Although these issues may initially arise from medical problems, they may also involve considerations of daily living support, home safety, financial or legal matters and caregiver support.

"Our nurse care managers work with clients and their families to solve issues they may face," says Joanne Wooldridge, RN, clinical director of PrimeCare and care manager. "We can provide concrete resources, care plans, options and support to ensure the well-being of the elder, while making it easier for caregivers to maintain a healthy balance in their lives."

A joint effort between the MGH and the Massachusetts General Physicians Organization, the program provides a wide array of care management services and is staffed by experienced nurse care managers.

PrimeCare offers medical care and coordination support, such as prescription management, appointment facilitation, medical advocacy and education about care plans. PrimeCare staff can conduct home safety evaluations, daily living assessments and will work with caregivers to ensure they are fully supported in their care efforts. For elders and their caregivers who need guidance in selecting alternative living options, PrimeCare offers information about these options and can provide support and guidance when transitioning into assisted living or nursing home settings. PrimeCare staff also can guide their clients who may have financial, legal and insurance issues. These issues might include insurance coverage and payment matters, prescription plans or the purchase of necessary equipment. Assistance and guidance with home health aide evaluation and selection and support programs for elder caregivers also are among the services available through PrimeCare.

Since the program started last spring, PrimeCare now has served more than 45 clients. Although many of these clients have been family members of MGH staff or patients referred by MGH physicians, the program is not limited to MGH patients and staff.

"We're delighted with the success of the program so far, but we're not really surprised. Most of us have elder family members or friends who are in need of increased support as they age," says Wooldridge. "The continued aging of our population, combined with reductions in Medicare services, has put a tremendous amount of responsibility on those who naturally would support elders, such as family, friends and medical providers. Unfortunately, people in these support roles don't always have the information, expertise or time needed to handle the complex and emotional issues that elders may present."

For more information about the program, visit the new website at http://www.massgeneral.org/depts/primecareweb/index.htm contact Wooldridge or Barbara Maxey, RN, at (617) 726-4488 or send e-mail to MGHPrimeCare@partners.org.