Healthcare Case Management Certification Blog on Post Acute Care

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

An important aspect of healthcare case management is post acute care.  Post acute care is important because it follows the care and follow ups needed after a hospital admission.  This is pivotal in lowered hospital readmissions that would not be necessary if better follow up care was provided.  Working with post acute care providers is essential to ensure better quality care for the patient over the long term.  Healthcare Case Managers play a key role in coordinating care after illness and during recovery to ensure the proper follow-up care is fulfilled and met.   They arrange and help the patient find the proper facility to meet their recovery needs as well as help the patient receive the proper follow up treatment.

Post Acute Care is important for long term health of patient. Please also review AIHCP’s Healthcare Case Management Certification

 

The article, “5 keys to effective post-acute care management” by Page Minmyer looks closer at better post acute care practices.  She states,

“Effective post-acute care management requires a multidimensional approach that incorporates effective communication, data analytics and clearly defined care coordination roles, according to a new white paper from Leavitt Partners. The benefits, however, are clear, as better post-acute care management can reduce readmissions, allow providers to more easily manage length of stay in skilled nursing facilities and better monitor discharge.”

“5 keys to effective post-acute care management”. Paige Minemyer. Fierce Healthcare. May 4, 2017

To read the entire article, please click here

Commentary

The field of healthcare case management is concerned with the coordination and delivery of care to patients with chronic or complex health conditions. Case managers work with patients and their families to develop a plan of care that meets the unique needs of each individual. They also work with other members of the healthcare team to ensure that all aspects of the patient’s care are considered and that care is delivered in a coordinated fashion.  This process can help to improve patient outcomes by making sure that the care they receive is timely and appropriate. Additionally, healthcare case management can help to reduce the overall cost of care by preventing duplicate services and avoiding unnecessary hospitalizations.

Post Acute Care

In regards to post acute care, the process is even more important in reducing readmissions.  Post-acute care is a type of medical care that is provided to patients who have been discharged from the hospital but still require some level of medical care. This type of care can be provided in a variety of settings, such as skilled nursing facilities, home health agencies, or inpatient rehabilitation facilities. Post-acute care is to help patients recover from their illness or injury and return to their prior level of functioning.  The goal of PAC is to help patients transition from the hospital to their homes or another care facility, such as a nursing home. PAC typically includes a variety of services, such as skilled nursing care, physical therapy, and occupational therapy.

Care managers also ensure the patient finds the proper facilities. Post acute care facilities provide medical and rehabilitative care to patients who have been discharged from the hospital but still require close medical supervision. These facilities typically offer a wide range of services, including skilled nursing care, physical therapy, speech therapy, and occupational therapy. patients in post acute care facilities often have complex medical needs that require close monitoring and coordination of care.

Types of Post Acute Care

Post Occupation Therapy is the process of helping people return to their previous level of functioning after an injury or illness. This can involve helping them regain their strength and mobility, as well as their cognitive and emotional well-being.  Quite similar is physical therapy.  Post-acute care physical therapy is a type of PT that is focused on helping patients recover from a serious injury or illness. This type of PT can involve working with patients who are in the hospital, as well as those who have been discharged and are receiving outpatient care. The goal of post-acute care physical therapy is to help patients regain their strength, mobility, and independence.

Through these therapies, checkups, and follow ups, patients can find the acute care they need after their initial stay in the hospital.  Care Managers can arrange and help the patient find the proper facilities or therapies for their particular needs and also work with the insurance companies in paying for this type of necessary care.  In the meantime, these type of post acute cares can prevent relapse or costly readmissions into the hospital.

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, case management is a vital role in the health care industry. Without case managers, patients would not receive the proper care and attention they need. Case managers are there to help patients every step of the way, from diagnosis to treatment and beyond. If you or a loved one is in need of health care, be sure to ask for a case manager. They can make all the difference in getting the care you need.  In regards to post acute care, case managers play a vital role in coordinating post-acute care. They are the link between hospitals, patients, and families during a time that is often filled with uncertainty. By educating themselves on the different types of post-acute care options and communicating effectively with all parties involved, case managers can ensure that patients receive the care they need to recover successfully.

Please also review AIHCP’s Healthcare Case Management Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Healthcare Case Management.   Nurses and other healthcare professionals are excellent candidates to take the required courses and become eligible for the certification.

 

Additional Resources

“Effectiveness of Multidisciplinary Rehabilitation Services in Postacute Care: State-of-the-Science. A Review”. Janet A.Prvu, et, al. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation  Volume 88, Issue 11, November 2007, Pages 1526-1534.  Access here

“Postacute Care Preparedness for COVID-19Thinking Ahead”. David C. Grabowski, PhD, et.al. JAMA. 2020;323(20):2007-2008. doi:10.1001/jama.2020.4686.  Access here

“Successful Management of Post-Acute Levels of Care”. Rebekah A. Koutny, RN, BSN, CCM, MCG Nurse Editor, and Carrie Brockman, BSN, RN, ACM, MCG Senior Nurse Editor. MCG Community.  Access here

“Post-acute Care for People with Cancer”. American Cancer Society.  Access here

Christian Counseling Certification Blog on Counseling Styles of Christ

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Christian Counseling has many approaches and styles to help individuals.  One way is to look to Scripture and find the styles Jesus used to talk to others.  Jesus used multiple approaches when talking and discussing issues with individuals.  Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification

Christ entering into dialogue with others through a variety of styles. Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification

 

The article, “How Might Jesus Do Counseling?” by Josh Squires looks into Scripture to find different styles Christ used to counsel and speak to others.  He states,

“The four elements of this framework are commendation, comfort, conviction, and challenge. Before I explain each below, first let me give a caveat: this is not a formula for counseling. Though I will present these components in an order — the order that occurs in my own counseling most frequently — there’s no strict progression. Each conversation may have a different combination of these four elements — or may, in fact, focus on only one or two of the four. These four elements are not so much a pattern or a formula as a multifaceted perspective by which to view the counseling task.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals looking for a four year certification in Christian Counseling.

 

ADHD Consulting Certification Blog on ADHD and Emotion

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD can work hand and hand with emotions.  Emotions can emerge with the impulsivity of ADHD and later cause one to regret certain behaviors.  It is important to understand how emotions and ADHD can work against oneself and be able to better cope.

A black family in counseling for an ADHD daughter.
ADHD can enhance emotional outbursts. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

The article, “ADHD and Emotions in Adults: Exploring the Connections” from Healthline looks closer at the issues emotions and ADHD together can cause.  The article states,

“Emotional impulsivity, then, describes sudden actions in direct response to an inability to regulate emotions. In children, this may largely be recognized as an inability to take turns when playing games or talking over others. While adults may also experience such symptoms, signs of emotional impulsivity can become even more problematic in daily life”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in ADHD Consulting.

Christian Counseling Certification Blog on Marriage Counseling

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Marriage is difficult for many couples but when things get difficult it is important for couples to remember their vow.  So many look to let go instead of trying to fix something.  Marriage counseling can be beneficial for many couples.  Christian couples should take advantage of pastoral and Christian counseling for married couples as well.

a ring keeping a book open
When is it time for marriage counseling? Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification

 

The article, “7 Reasons to Seek Marriage Counseling” by Donna White takes a closer look when a couple should consider marriage counseling.  She states,

“When couples become more like roommates than a married couple, this may indicate a need for counseling. This does not mean if the couple isn’t doing everything together they are in trouble. If there is a lack of communication, conversation and intimacy or any other elements the couple feels are important and they feel they just “co-exist,” this may be an indication that a skilled clinician can help sort out what is missing and how to get it back.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Christian Counseling Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Christian Counseling.

Substance Abuse Counseling Certification Blog on Addiction and Heredity

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Addiction is a disease.  Some substances are more naturally addictive, while others are more prone genetically to certain substances.  Some individuals may exhibit substance abuse but never become addicted, while others due to family tree genetics, may experience addiction very easily to certain substances.  It is important to always avoid dangerous substances but also be careful with legal substances that can become addictive.  This involves temperance but also knowing one’s family history with addiction.

Drawing of a brain with a band aid on it.
Is part of addiction a heredity and genetic thing? Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification

 

The article, “Is Addiction Hereditary?” from Cleveland Clinic healthessentials takes a closer look at heredity and addiction.  The article states,

“The genetic connection to addiction comes through inherited levels of dopamine, a neurotransmitter made in your brain. Think of dopamine as your brain’s reward center. Basically, it acts as a “feel-good” hormone. High levels of dopamine can fuel poor impulse control and tilt someone toward addictive behaviors.  “Now, that doesn’t mean that if you have the genes, or if you have family members that have struggled with addiction, that you’re going to develop an addiction”, explains Dr. Anand. “It just means you’re more prone to it.” In other words, genetics indicate a predisposition — not a destiny.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Counseling Certification and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.

 

Pet Loss Grief Support Certification Blog on Pet Loss Grief

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

When someone loses a pet, many dismiss it as not important.  This type of disenfranchisement is common for grievers over pet loss.  They are made to feel as if their loss is minimal and not identical to the loss of a human being.  It is important to dismiss this type of shaming and recognize the reality of grief.  Attachment to a pet can be very strong and the pain is very real.  The grief of those who lose pets should be recognized and respected.  Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Certification

Bonds with one pet are as strong as some bonds with people. Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Certification

 

The article, “Nobody Can Tell You How to Feel After Losing a Pet” by Lianna Bass defends the emotions of pet owners who lose a pet.  She states,

“There comes a time in every pet owner’s life when you have to say your final goodbye—and, suddenly, the limitless source of love from your furry friend is just…gone. When that happens it can be absolutely devastating. For some people the death of a pet can feel even harder than losing a human loved one. We may not openly talk about pet grief in polite society, but most pet owners know that a pet isn’t just an animal. They’re also a beloved member of the family and a huge source of unconditional love, affection, and comfort.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Pet Loss Grief Support Certification and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Pet Loss Grief Support.

Anger Management Program Article on Children and Anger

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Teaching children how to cope with anger and emotion is a key parental responsibility.  It is critical to help children cope and control anger to avoid future social issues.  Children who are allowed to entertain anger without restraint will end up in prison. Hence parents need to learn and take a proactive role in guiding their children.  Please also review AIHCP’s Anger Management Program

Children need guidance with anger. Please also review AIHCP’s Anger Management Program and see if it meets your goals

 

The article, “How to Raise Kids Who Are Good at Getting Angry” by Catherine Pearson discusses how to help children better cope through the emotion of anger.  She states,

“When it comes to kids and anger, it can help to remember a few simple facts: First, anger is a basic human emotion. And second, emotions exist to tell us about ourselves and our relationships, explained Dave Anderson, a clinical psychologist and vice president of school and community programs at the Child Mind Institute, a nonprofit that provides therapy to children and families. Emotions can help us to answer basic questions: What would we like more of? What would we like to stop?”

To review the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s Anger Management Program

The program is online and independent study and is open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Anger Management Program

 

The Nature of Addiction and Substance Abuse

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Addiction can be social but in most cases it is genetic.  Addition in the brain compels an individual to become physically dependent upon the substance.  This is by far a stronger addiction than social and peer influences.  The individual actually becomes addicted in the brain to the new substance.  It is hard to say who or who will not become addicted to a particular drug, based on the chemical makeup of the drug itself and also the genetic makeup of the individual.  This is why it is critical to avoid addicting substances.  Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program if you wish to help others face addiction.

The process of addiction starts in the brain. Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it meets your professional goals

 

The article, “The Science of Drug Use: How Substance Use Can Lead to Addiction” by Simbiat Bakare looks closer at the process of addiction within the brain and its neuro transmitters.  He states,

“Substances like marijuana, heroin, amphetamine, and cocaine tap into the brain system, causing the neurons to release large amounts of natural neurotransmitters which are chemical brain messengers that amplify a user’s craving for hard drugs. With drug users indulging their cravings, the brain adapts to the surge in dopamine and other neurotransmitters by reducing the number of receptors, thus making the user take a higher dosage of drugs to get the desired euphoria.”

“The Science of Drug Use: How Substance Use Can Lead to Addiction”. Simbiat Bakare. June 15th, 2022. NET.

To read the entire article, please click here

Commentary

Addiction is a state of compulsive engagement in rewarding stimuli, despite adverse consequences. It is a brain disorder characterized by compulsive engagement in activities that are intrinsically rewarding (e.g., eating, sex, gambling) and/or by compulsive engagement in activities that are extrinsically rewarding (e.g., working, caring for others). The former group of activities is typically referred to as natural rewards, while the latter group is typically referred to as conditioned rewards.  Addiction is a complex condition that is characterized by compulsive drug-seeking behavior and continued use despite harmful consequences. Addiction is caused by a variety of factors, including genetic predisposition, social environment, and psychological factors.  The initial decision to take drugs is voluntary for most people, but repeated drug use can lead to brain changes that challenge an addicted person’s self-control and interfere with their ability to resist intense urges to take drugs.

Substance Abuse

Substance abuse is a term used to describe the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs. The term encompasses a range of activities, from binge drinking and occasional drug use to addiction and dependence. Substance abuse is a serious public health problem. It is estimated that one in four adults in the United States has engaged in some form of substance abuse at some point in their lives.

Substance abuse is the overindulgence in or dependence on a psychoactive substance, especially alcohol or drugs. Though often associated with illegal drugs, alcohol and prescription medication can be just as addictive and damaging. Addiction is a chronic, relapsing brain disease that is characterized by compulsive drug seeking and use, despite harmful consequences. Drugs change the brain in ways that make quitting hard, even for those who want to.

Addiction and the Brain

The brain’s job is to constantly receive information from the body and decide what to do with it. The brain also has to keep track of what is going on around us in our environment.
Addiction occurs when drugs or alcohol change the way the brain works.  There is a growing body of evidence that suggests that addiction is, at least in part, a brain disease. This is because addiction appears to change the structure and function of the brain, which then leads to changes in behavior. These changes in the brain can be long-lasting and can lead to the harmful behaviors seen in people with addiction.

The behaviors that stem from brain issues due to addiction cause an individual to feel a sense of compulsion or obsession with a particular activity. These behaviors can be harmful to the individual’s health and well-being, but they may continue to engage in them despite the negative consequences. There are many different types of addictive behaviors, but some common ones include substance abuse, gambling, sex, and shopping.

Conclusion

In conclusion, addiction is a serious problem that affects millions of people worldwide. It is a complex disease that changes the brain in ways that make it difficult for people to control their impulses and make healthy choices. While there is no easy solution, treatment can help people recover from addiction and lead fulfilling lives.

Addiction and recovery are difficult topics to discuss. There is no one-size-fits-all solution to addiction, and recovery is a lifelong process. However, there is hope for those struggling with addiction, and many resources available to help them on their journey to recovery. If you or someone you know is struggling with addiction, please reach out for help.

Please also review AIHCP’s Substance Abuse Practitioner Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Substance Abuse Counseling.   Those who become certified can offer aid to those affected by addiction.  Many certified members work in lower tier positions under the guidance of a licensed professional at addiction clinics or addiction services.  Licensed social workers and licensed counselors benefit from earning a certification to enhance their resume and practice in helping others deal with the dangers of addiction.

 

Additional Resources

“Neurocircuitry of Addiction”.George F Koob & Nora D Volkow. Neuropsychopharmacology volume 35, pages217–238 (2010).  Access here

“What is addiction?”. Harvard Health Blog.  September 12th, 2021. Harvard Health Publishing. Access here

“What is addiction?”. Alyssa Peckham. June 3rd, 2021. MedicalNewsToday.  Access here

“What Is Addiction?”. Psychology Today Staff. Psychology Today. Access here

“What causes addiction?”. Adam Felman.  November 2nd, 2018. MedicalNewsToday. Access here

“Biology of Addiction”. October 2015. News In Health.  Access here

ADHD Consulting Specialist Program Blog on ADHD Misdiagnosis

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

ADHD is one of the most common over misdiagnosed mental issues in children.  It is easy to misdiagnose due to the multiple symptoms and the differences in its appearance from person to person.  With this in mind, it is important to receive a very accurate diagnosis regarding ADHD.  Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program

ADHD is commonly misdiagnosed. Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program and see if it meets your academic and professional goals

 

The article, “Why ADHD Misdiagnoses Can Be Common” By Stephanie Wright takes a closer look at ADHD and misdiagnosis.  She states,

“Sometimes, doctors don’t get an initial diagnosis right. Being your own health advocate can help ensure you get the correct diagnosis, critical to receiving effective care.  If you’ve been correctly diagnosed with ADHD, it’s going to be OK. Though stigma still exists, society has come a long way in awareness and acceptance of mental health conditions.  You don’t need to hide your symptoms. Your local health office is a safe space to seek help for your mental health condition — whether it’s ADHD or something different.”

To read the entire article, please click here

Please also review AIHCP’s ADHD Consulting Specialist Program and see if it matches your academic and professional goals.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification as an ADHD Consultant Specialist.

Grief Counseling Certification Blog on Alan Wolfert’s Ten Touchstones

Posted on by Dominick Flarey

Going through grief is a difficult transition.   With so many erroneous philosophies surrounding grief, it can even be more difficult to navigate emotions and cope with the pain.   It is important to understand how grief affects human beings and how human beings need to react to grief itself.   Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification Program.

Grief can be a difficult journey. Sometimes support groups can help individuals process and cope with grief in helpful ways. Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Program

 

Many contend grief is an unnatural state, or that one must restore balance in life and forget the past.  Others believe grief is in step by step stages.  Others believe grief should be kept from others and never expressed.  All of these ideas can lead to complications within the grieving process.  Many individuals due to misinformation need external help to learn how to grieve and cope properly.

Support is key in grieving as well as Grief Counseling.  The rule of thirds dictates that one third of those one knows will be indifferent to one’s loss, while another third will actually be counterproductive to the grieving process, and the final third will be helpful and compassionate.   The more support one has the better they can cope with the loss but many need help.  Grief Support Groups offer the aid some need to better heal.

Alan Wolfert, an expert in grief, lists ten key touchstones to grieving.  These touchstones are utilized in his guide for support groups.   The touchstones provide a good outline to dictate the course of the meeting outlines in helping others come to grips with loss itself.  Many of the elements found in other grieving models are found in these touchstones but again the touchstones are not to serve as a chronological time line to healing but a check list to measure healing.

In this blog, we will briefly review these ten touchstones.

The first touchstone deals with opening oneself to the presence to the loss.  Denial is one of the first reactions to loss.   Hence it is important to open oneself to the reality of loss and acknowledge the event and start to process it.  Various emotions will emerge, but the process is key in healing.  It is also critical to understand the nature of grief.  Grief in itself is the price of love.  The two are forever interwound with each other.  Understanding that grief is not temporary but a life long journey is important.  Love is forever hence grief and loss of that love is forever.

The second touchstone deals with dismissing false misconceptions of grief.  A support group can help others dismiss bad grieving habits and false ideas.  So many false ideas about grief exist in society.  Many of these false misconceptions and myths damage healing itself.

The third touchstone involves embracing the uniqueness of one’s grief.  Grief is very unique.  Due to this, losses vary from individual to individual.  Some losses are greater than others.  Other losses have greater bonds.   Some losses also depend on one’s ability to cope.  Secondary losses can occur which can make the primary loss even more difficult.   Hence all loss is unique because each bond is unique.  It is important for the bereaved to understand the unique nature of his or her personal grief and what challenges he or she will incur.

The fourth touchstone is exploring the feelings associated with loss.  So many times, emotions are hidden.  Some emotions are considered distasteful.  It is important to accept all forms of emotions within a healthy manner.  Anger and sadness should not be dismissed but embraced and properly understood within the grieving process.

Touchstone five deals with understanding the needs of mourning.  This touchstone correlates with many grief theories regarding recovering.  First, one must acknowledge the loss.  Following this, one must embrace the emotions, remember and commemorate the deceased, develop a new relationship, find new meaning and let others help in times of sadness.  These are key elements in adjusting to the particular loss and becoming whole again.   One does change through grief but through proper grieving , one is able to change in a healthy way that adjusts to the loss and allows one to exist but still remember.

The sixth touchstone is understanding that grief does not make one crazy.  Many individuals hold tight to older traditions, dream of the deceased, or may even see the deceased.  While in grief, these types of fixations on the deceased are not pathological.  Missing someone is not crazy.  The manifestations of missing someone should not be dismissed as crazy.  Individuals must understand that is natural for these things to occur during the grieving process.

The seventh touchstone deals with nurturing oneself.  In grief, it is easy to forgot oneself.  It is easy not to care for oneself or attend to things that are important to oneself.  As one heals, it is important to care for oneself. It is important to try to find a smile, or beauty in things.  This may be difficult, but self care should not feel guilty.  Many who grieve, feel they must grieve forever or they will betray the one the love.  Grief should not be a punishment but a transition.

The eighth touchstone involves reaching out to others.  Many individuals see this as a sign of weakness.   These individuals may hide their grief.  Others may see it as a sign of weakness to ask for advice or cry before someone.  As social beings, it is important to seek help when hurt.  Emotional hurt is no different.

The ninth touchstone is discovering that grief is about reconciliation not resolution.  There is no end to the loss itself.  The loss is forever hence the separation is forever.  There will be no resolution or new self void of the past.  Hence it is important to understand that one must become reconciled to the loss.  One must be able to accept it and live with it.  This means living with it in a healthy way, but it does not mean, the pain will magically vanish.  One still can at times experience the pains of loss but be completely adjusted and reconciled to the new reality.

The final touchstone is appreciation of one’s transformation.  This does not mean one forgets the deceased and is happy to be changed, but means one is happy he or she experienced the grieving process and now can in a healthy way enjoy the adjustment while still remembering the deceased.  The transformation shows change and growth and understanding.  These are good things to be thankful for.

Wolfert’s Ten Touchstones can direct grief support groups. Please also review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification

 

These touchstones serve as an excellent source to guide Grief Support Meetings.  They can help individuals through the maze of grief and find proper healing and transformation.  It allows the bereaved to experience emotion, learn about the grieving process and have the support and tools to reconcile and transform from the loss.

If you would like to learn more about Grief Counseling, then please review AIHCP’s Grief Counseling Certification.  The program is online and independent study and open to qualified professionals seeking a four year certification in Grief Counseling.

 

Resources and Sources

“Understanding Your Grief” by Alan Wolfert

Wolfert’s Touchstones https://www.taps.org/articles/27-3/ten-touchstones-finding-hope-healing-heart

Bio on Alan Wolfert  https://www.centerforloss.com/about-the-center-for-loss/about-dr-alan-wolfelt/

Other texts by Alan Wolfert https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/253894.Alan_D_Wolfelt