There is some confusion identifying the role of a geriatric care manager and a geriatric nurse case manager.  This is not surprising as there are many types of managers in the healthcare field.  I am a nurse case manager, and often am asked if my role is similar to an aging life care manager so I’d like to explain how that is different from a geriatric care manager.

These two roles have distinct functions and are not in competition with one another. In fact, they complement one another with a common goal to improve patient outcomes.  These two healthcare professionals can choose to work together so their clients receive all aspects of care at an elevated level.  At times, a care plan may need to be extremely comprehensive, and then, having both professionals work together can be beneficial.  

Nurse case managers are registered nurses. They manage medical cases, which are typically complicated. They have a case manager certification.  Geriatric care managers are usually social workers.  They have a care manager certification.  They manage care and focus on quality of life.

The same way a registered nurse and a social worker have different roles in a hospital, they provide different care in other settings too, such as providing care to clients in their own home. Both nurse case managers and geriatric care managers use their education and experience to support patients.  Their areas of expertise and their focus for client care differs.

When I conduct an initial nursing assessment with a new client, I am using clinical and nursing experience.  This approach to an assessment allows me to create a comprehensive, holistic, and evidence-based care plan.  To help you better understand which each manager does, let’s look at the different roles each manager may focus on when providing care to the older adult population.

Roles of a nurse case manager include:

Develop person-centered goals
Reduce readmissions and relapses in chronic disease
Coordinate discharge from hospital or rehab
Medication management
Follow up on lab studies and other medical tests
Assist with navigating the healthcare system

Roles of a geriatric case manager include:

Coordination of personal care
Make referrals to resources in the community
Provide education and support to family members
Care management and coordinate medical appointments
Crisis intervention
Support client and family during transitions

How do you know which one to choose? Consider what your needs are to determine if someone with a nursing background or someone with social work experience is better suited. If you have complicated medical needs, chronic diseases or take medication, a geriatric nurse case manager is better qualified. If you need a geriatric care manager, support with resources in the community, or someone to coordinate medical appointments, then a social worker would be the best fit. 

There may be times when both a geriatric care manager and a nurse case manager would be beneficial. It’s important to choose the professional who has the qualifications for your specific needs.  If you were hospitalized or in another care facility, would your services be best addressed by a registered nurse or a social worker.  If you think you may benefit from both a geriatric care manager and a nurse case manager, start with the service that is most urgent.  

Are you still having difficulty deciding which is better for your particular situation?  Contact me for complimentary discovery call identify your specific needs and learn more.  https://wellnessstrategiesgroup.com/contact/  You may also find this article from a home care agency helpful. Care Management vs Case Management: What is the Difference Between the Two and Which Should I Use? – Accurate health (accuratehhc.com)