Seven minutes. That’s how long the average encounter lasts between a patient and their provider during a visit. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, nearly one half of a doctor’s average workday is spent outside of the examination room performing other administrative tasks such as patient follow-up and documentation. The reality in our current healthcare market is that time spent face-to-face with patients is in constant competition with administrative and reporting requirements. In a time-constrained environment that limits open discussion and in-depth conversation, how is patient loyalty built? Furthermore, who is able to really understand the whole picture surrounding a patient and their condition in seven minutes?
As the time spent on patient encounters decreases and patient dissatisfaction increases, there is a critical need to bridge the gap so that patients are given the time they need to have an open discussion about their health.
This is where the role of a patient care coordinator comes in.
The Patient Care Coordinators, or PCCs, at Curant Health are key to our success. They are all certified pharmacy professionals who use their knowledge of medications and experience in pharmacy to help patients adhere to their medications and live healthier, more fulfilled lives. Each Curant Health patient is matched with a dedicated patient care coordinator who understands their medical condition(s) and learns about their lifestyle, medication regimen and most importantly: the patient as a person.
How do PCCs solve the issue of seven-minute office visits? In short, they are there for their patients when the provider cannot be. Managing a chronic condition is a journey that is riddled with unexpected turns and constant questions—which the average physician does not have the time capacity to effectively manage. Patient care coordinators have a 24/7 commitment to answering these patient questions and alleviating concerns, and it is their constant support and encouragement that make our patients feel like family.
Being a PCC requires an exceptional amount of compassion, dedication to care and willingness to go above and beyond for patient needs. Meet some of Curant Health’s patient care coordinators who fulfill all of these qualities and learn why they do what they do.
Cecile
My favorite thing about being a patient care coordinator is… “I enjoy making new relationships with my patients and hearing their stories! I also enjoy knowing that I am helping someone that needs assistance in managing their health and medications.”
When I’m not helping patients, I’m… “trying different foods, watching movies, reading novels and magazines and hanging out with friends and family.”
Kara
My favorite thing about being a patient care coordinator is… “I love having a personal relationship with my patients. It is rewarding to know that they can trust me and count on me to take care of their health care needs.”
When I’m not helping patients, I’m… “going to the beach, kickboxing, rollerblading, shopping, volunteering for United Way.
Kimberly
My favorite thing about being a patient care coordinator is… “the relationship that I am able to build with my patients. It’s like having an extended family and it makes my job very rewarding.”
When I’m not helping patients, I’m… “traveling, shopping, and anything outdoors related-- kayaking, camping, white water rafting, and hiking. I also enjoy spending time with my family and friends.”
Kimberly
My favorite thing about being a patient care coordinator is… “I love being able to have that personal relationship with my patients. Being able to help my patients the best possible way I can makes them happy, improves outcomes and makes me feel good knowing that I am able to do that for them.”
When I’m not helping patients, I’m… “marathon running, cycling, hanging out at the beach.”
Visit us to watch a video and hear more from our PCCs on the work they do.