Chronic Care Model, Coursework Example

Introduction

The Chronic Care Model provides a basis for examining the different areas of care and treatment for patients with one or more chronic illnesses. This process requires nurses to understand the different constructs of care and how these are integrated to promote the best possible outcomes for a given patient population. This model includes a number of different steps that aim to provide the best possible care and treatment for patients with chronic disease who face multiple risks and symptoms on a regular basis. The model reflects the need to address chronic diseases such as COPD in a comprehensive manner to ensure that patient care needs are not compromised and that support and treatment is provided at a necessary and consistent level.

Commitment and Resources

Committing to a model to manage chronic disease requires the appropriate allocation of resources in order to support the model’s implementation and success for COPD patients at all stages of the disease (Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2015). Chronic care must serve as a critical priority in the proper allocation of resources to support these patients at all levels of treatment (Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2015). In addition, it requires a commitment to proper diagnosis and therapeutic interventions to improve quality of life for all patients (Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield, 2015).

System

A viable and practical system must be established to support patient needs and to support clinical practice methods (Fiandt, 2006). The system will capture relevant data that is critical in treating patients effectively and in supporting a long-term plan of care to address COPD symptoms (Fiandt, 2006). The selected system must capture the key elements of the disease and its overall impact on patient care and quality of life so that patients receive optimal care on a continuous basis (Fiandt, 2006).

Decision Support

Decision-making within the Chronic Care Model requires expert knowledge and support in the treatment of all patients at all stages of the disease (Group Health Research Institute, 2015). This process acknowledges that leadership is critical to this model to promote effective decision-making and to encourage clinical providers that will have a lasting impact on patient care and quality of life (Group Health Research Institute, 2015). Decisions must be practical in nature and provide an effective understanding of the key elements that promote symptom alleviation for COPD patients (Group Health Research Institute, 2015).

Clinical Information Systems

The delivery associated with the Chronic Care Model requires a technology-based vehicle in order to ensure that patient care outcomes are timely and effective. Therefore, prior research must be evaluated in order to support the success of the model by using the technology that is available (Stellefson et.al, 2013). The chosen system must align with the clinical and community-based environments in which it will operate in order to accomplish the intended objectives at a high level (Stellefson et.al, 2013).

Conclusion

The complexities of COPD require the implementation of a Chronic Care Model in order to accomplish the desired objectives to alleviate symptoms and improve quality of life. This process requires clinicians to be proactive in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with COPD in order to address their long-term prognosis and the efforts required to address symptoms with the appropriate treatments. This process will facilitate opportunities for growth and in support of patient needs above all else.

References

Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield (2015). The chronic care model (CCM). Retrieved from http://www.anthem.com/wps/portal/ahpprovider?content_path=provider/ct/f5/s2/t0/pw_038149.htm&state=ct&label=The+Chronic+Care+Model+%28CCM%29

Fiandt, K. (2006). The chronic care model: description and application for practice. Topics in                Advanced Practice eJournal, 6(4), retrieved from http://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/549040_3

Group Health Research Institute (2015). The chronic care model. Retrieved from  http://www.improvingchroniccare.org/index.php?p=The_Chronic_CareModel&s=2

Stellefson, M., Dipnarine, K., & Stopka, C. (2013). The chronic care model and diabetes management in US primary care settings: a systematic review. Preventing Chronic Disease, retrieved from http://www.cdc.gov/pcd/issues/2013/12_0180.htm