Chronic Care Management (CCM) refers to the provision of non-face-to-face services to Medicare beneficiaries who suffer from multiple (two or more) significant chronic conditions. Apart from in-office visits and other direct encounters, these services encompass communication with patients and other healthcare providers for coordinated care, both electronically and via phone. They also include medication management and the availability of round-the-clock support to patients and their caregivers.
Obesity, heart disease, diabetes, hypertension, mental health disorders, congestive heart failure and COPD are prevalent conditions addressed through CCM.
Effective chronic care management via non-face-to-face CCM services leads to reduced healthcare costs for patients with chronic diseases while enhancing overall health outcomes.
The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) acknowledge the significance of CCM services and actively promote them for eligible patients.
Medicare beneficiaries with two or more chronic conditions qualify for CCM services.
Clinical practitioners can bill for at least 20 minutes of CCM care provided to eligible CMS beneficiaries.
Studies demonstrate that CCM programs contribute to lower annual healthcare expenses by minimizing unnecessary hospital visits, emergency room visits and facilitating cost-effective medication and treatment alternatives.