‘Lunch and Learn’ to discuss care coordination in county

    PRESQUE ISLE, Maine — Through care coordination, patients with chronic disease throughout Aroostook County are learning to take better care of themselves and, in turn, lead healthier, more active lifestyles. At an upcoming TAMC Community Lunch and Learn/Healthy Aging Luncheon, the public will have the opportunity to hear some of the success stories from patients and care givers who are making this happen.    “Care Coordination in The County” will begin with an hour-long community health fair Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. at the Presque Isle Inn and Convention Center. More than a dozen exhibits featuring health information, services and free screenings will be featured.
At 11 a.m., attendees will enjoy a buffet lunch, followed by a presentation and interactive discussion on care coordination. The presentation will include first-hand accounts from two local care coordinators and two of their patients. After sharing their experience, the presenters will take questions from the audience.
“Care coordination is about giving our patients the right care, at the right time, in the right place for the best patient outcomes,” said Beverly Joy, northern Maine regional care coordinator manager. “Care coordination is a best practice patient care model that is patient centered keeping the patient connected to their very own care team in which they, the patient, are a valued member of that team.”
The care coordination process involves collaboration, assessment, evaluation, planning and facilitation as an ongoing process in daily duties. TAMC care coordinators, all registered nurses, advocate for patients regarding options and resources to health care needs essential in reaching optimal outcomes.
“It’s not always about success in achieving goals, but rather the journey in getting there,” said Lorraine Deschaine, care coordinator. Deschaine, along with her colleague Nancy Denton, care coordinator, will speak about their experiences and each be joined by a patient they work with as part of the panel discussion.
Cost for the program and meal is $10 per person. Members enrolled in TAMC’s Senior Connection program pay only $5. For more information or to reserve a seat, call 768-4171.