ExtraCare Program

The ExtraCare Program is a telephonic care management program designed to improve the health and functional status of participants coping with multiple chronic conditions coupled with social and financial burdens. 

Using predictive modeling software, ExtraCare proactively targets the .5% to 1.5% of commercial members and 6% to 8% of Medicare members who are at greatest risk for hospitalization and account for 20 to 30% of total healthcare costs.

Staffed by experienced RN Care Managers who work one-on-one with a small group of participants, ExtraCare has three specific aims:

• By stabilizing social and environmental issues that create barriers to health improvement, participants are more likely to achieve their health goals.
• Help physicians to close the gaps in health care services by coordinating medical care and optimizing the treatment of co-morbid conditions.
• Engage participants in their own health improvement by providing education and self-management tools critical to making lifestyle changes.

A critical component of the ExtraCare program is the commitment to support the vital relationship between physician and complex care patient. ExtraCare serves as the physician’s extension in efforts to align patient/physician health improvement goals and supports the physician’s care plan by providing ongoing communication regarding intervention programs and results.

By optimizing medical care services and addressing psychosocial needs, ExtraCare enhances the health and functional status of complex care patients and reduces the need for acute care.

At its core, this program seeks to reduce healthcare costs by preventing unnecessary ER visits and hospitalizations. Additional objectives of the program include increasing functional status of participants, promoting the appropriate use of medications and increasing regular provider visits. The High-Risk program is highly customized to the needs and challenges of each participant and utilizes a holistic approach by addressing psychosocial, environmental, and financial issues. The program also stresses a collaborative approach with physicians in order to support the vital physician/patient relationship.