Healthy Habits: CareThrough

According to the CDC, chronic diseases are the leading cause of death and disability in the US.  Chronic diseases and conditions – such as heart disease, stroke, cancer, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and arthritis are among the most common of all health problems. As of 2012, about 117 million people had one or more chronic health conditions. The introduction of value-based care and reimbursements has added to the stress of our already overloaded physician as they now have to balance the number of patients they see and focus on providing them with high-quality care.  In turn, patients feel neglected as clinicians do not get to spend quality time with them as they are running from room to room, patient to patient.  Is there a solution to this growing healthcare issue?  

CareThrough is a 360° care management solution proven to improve quality of care and patient engagement, by offering a new way to help navigate these value-based requirements and put the quality back into the clinician/patient relationship. One of the key specific areas that CareThrough focuses on is Chronic Care Management.  CareThrough is helping providers in Chronic Care Management, by offering navigator services that help boost enrollment, coordinate care and work hand in hand with care teams so providers can work at the top of their license.  Their highly-skilled care navigation coordinators will come in and check with the patient, answer any further questions and be sure they understand their next steps.   

I had a chance to interview Justin Wilson, Senior Director of Communications and Business Strategy at Healthchannels, the parent of CareThrough, to learn more.

Why is it helpful to have another person involved in the management of chronic diseases? 

It can be frustrating trying to reach your doctor when they are unavailable to answer questions, or you may speak with a nurse who isn't knowledgeable of your specific care plan. A navigator is connected to your physician, and the care team, so they can get answers for you fast.  

Why was CareThrough started?

With over a decade in the healthcare industry we consistently ask ourselves “What do our clients need in order to provide lifesaving care, and how can we facilitate their goals?” We think the doctor-patient relationship is the heart of medicine. Our founder is a physician who strives to ensure patients have a positive experience, and doctors don’t get burned out. 

What sets it apart from other options in managing chronic conditions? 

CareThrough is a member of HealthChannels, three distinct companies that have been preferred by health systems and providers for years. As healthcare systems are looking for ways to make the shift to value-based care, we are able to offer a highly-skilled workforce that works elbow to elbow with doctors. Our Chronic Care Navigators connect technology and care coordination strategies that proactively reach at-risk patients.