*What are your professional credentials?
A care manager should have at least a Bachelor’s degree in a health-related area and/or be a licensed nurse. Certification as a case manager is preferred, as well.
*Are you a member of the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers (NAPGCM)? If not, why not?
Members of the NAPGCM must have set education, credentials, certification, and experience. This should be your starting point for selecting a Professional Geriatric Care Manager (PGCM). There are individuals without appropriate knowledge, skill, and experience calling themselves care managers or "coaches" . The State of Michigan does not require licensure or certification so it is especially important to choose well.
*How many years have you been practicing professional geriatric care management?
One cannot be a member of the NAPGCM unless he/she has at least two years of supervised experience in the field of gerontology. Needs of older adults and their families are very complex and professional experience is important. Typically, the more experience in direct geriatric care management the better.
*Are there other care managers to serve as back-up when the assigned care manager is away or unavailable? If so, how many hours does this person work with you weekly or monthly in order to be knowledgeable regarding your clients?
Many care managers practice solo. Older adults need consistent support at unexpected times. If you want and/or need 24/7 assistance, it is important the care management company has more than one care manager or that the "solo" care manager has made arrangements for coverage by a well-informed and experienced colleague when he/she is not available.
*Are you available after hours and on weekends?
Older adults need consistent support and at unexpected times. High quality PGCMs, or their knowledgeable and experienced counterparts, are available to their clients and their families 24/7, 7 days a week.
*What are your fees?
Fees for services should be provided in a written agreement before service begins and be as specific as possible, so there is clarity for all involved.
*Are you licensed in your profession?
The PGCM should be licensed, if required, in his/her area of expertise.
*How do you involve the family in your care of the older adult?
While the primary client is the older adult, all others affected by his/her care needs should considered as part of the client system. Most older adults will give the PGCM permission to consult with their families, so it is important the PGCM value this relationship and be willing and able to address any problems or conflicts which are present.
*Are you affiliated with any other elder care service or company?
The PGCM should provide full disclosure regarding business, professional, or personal relationships he/she has with each recommended business, agency, or institution.
*What do you consider your area(s) of specialty or interest?
PGCMs may choose to specialize in certain client populations or services. Do any of these interests or specialties apply to your loved one?
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