Disease Management – 3 Secrets Every Parent Should Know

Case managers can help parents with the unknown and frightening responsibility of disease management for their children, a job for which none of us (as parents) are prepared.

The broad term of disease management can cover everything from diabetes, cystic fibrosis or cerebral palsy to premature infants, congenital anomalies (cleft lip, club foot) or traumas (injuries from accidents). When faced with caring for their children on a day-to-day basis, Primary Pediatric Management wants parents to be aware of three important secrets to obtaining the best care for your child:

1. ADVOCATE ACTIVELY – “Advocate” is the biggest buzz word in medical care and case management these days. As the parent, you need to speak up for yourself and, in the process, for your child. If you think something is wrong, you need to let someone know. “Something” could actually turn out to be something. Don’t let people brush you off when you sense something isn’t right; follow your instincts. Trust yourself. Primary Pediatric Management advocates for the patient and teaches families how to do the same.

2. BE INSURANCE SAVVY – Be aware of and understand your insurance dollars and how the deductibles and co-pays work. Become a good consumer of healthcare dollars so you don’t max out. Don’t waste money doing things that are unnecessary. Learn what your responsibilities are under your insurance plan. Many parents don’t know about the parameters of their health insurance plans until someone in the family gets sick.

3. BE RESOURCEFUL USING AVAILABLE RESOURCES – Families have choices and programs that they can tap into, including alternative funding sources. One example of a Missouri program is called First Steps (for children up to 3) which provides services and assistance to children who have delayed development or conditions that are associated with developmental disabilities. Our case managers can help you find these options and resources.

If you utilize these three secrets in the care of your child, you’ll be helping not only him or her, but yourself, as well, reducing your stress levels and improving your peace of mind.

If you have any questions about the three secrets or have an example of a success you’ve experienced putting one or more of these secrets to good use, please contact Primary Pediatric Management Inc. at 877.734.PEDS (7337).