Bridging case management and primary care manager gaps in a military setting

The team approach to case management (CM) has proven to be an effective method of providing quality outcomes, reducing fragmentation of care, improving communication, and reducing cost.1 Often CM teams consist of the patient, family/caregiver, physician, case manager, other health care personnel, clergy, home health agencies, employers, and health-plan administrators. This article focuses on the CM process implemented within a former TRICARE region to bridge the gap between the primary care manager (PCM) and CM. It discusses how the TRICARE Mid-Atlantic region identified and resolved barriers effecting collaboration between the PCM and CM.