In a collaborative care model, what is the role of the care manager?

In a collaborative care model, what is the role of the care manager?

• A. Prescribe antidepressants independently.
• B. Provide only administrative paperwork.
• C. Replace the PCP in management.
• D. Coordinate care, monitor symptoms, and facilitate referrals.

Answer: (D)

In collaborative care, the care manager is the linchpin who keeps the treatment plan moving across the team. Their main job is to coordinate care among the patient, the primary care physician, and behavioral health specialists, monitor symptoms over time, and facilitate referrals to psychotherapy, psychiatry, social services, or other needed supports. They also help with follow-up, track progress using standardized measures (like depression scales), and support medication adherence and patient education. This role emphasizes ongoing coordination and monitoring rather than prescribing medications independently, replacing the PCP, or handling only administrative tasks.

In collaborative care, the care manager is the linchpin who keeps the treatment plan moving across the team. Their main job is to coordinate care among the patient, the primary care physician, and behavioral health specialists, monitor symptoms over time, and facilitate referrals to psychotherapy, psychiatry, social services, or other needed supports. They also help with follow-up, track progress using standardized measures (like depression scales), and support medication adherence and patient education. This role emphasizes ongoing coordination and monitoring rather than prescribing medications independently, replacing the PCP, or handling only administrative tasks.