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Prairie du Chien, WI – Managing a chronic condition can be overwhelming, that’s why Crossing Rivers Health Clinic developed the Chronic Care Management program. The program is led by a team of healthcare professionals that work closely with individuals diagnosed with two or more chronic conditions, such as diabetes, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, hypertension, obesity, and depression.

"The goal of the Chronic Care Management program is for the patient to live a longer and healthier life,” explained Linda Ryan, Population Health Nurse and Chronic Care Coordinator at Crossing Rivers Health Clinic. “The program is designed to reduce emergency room visits, make the patient more comfortable when transitioning from the hospital to home, lessen the burden of chronic disease in their life, and coordinate the care needed by connecting healthcare providers and services that will provide the most benefit for the patient and their health.” As a result of this program, Ryan shared that patients should notice an improvement in their overall health and wellness resulting from a better understanding of medications and their effects, coordinated care between all providers on their healthcare team. The program will also help to make healthcare more cost-effective, as a result of improved preventative care, and overall improved control of their chronic illness.

The Chronic Care Management program is a team-based approach centered around the specific needs of the patient that allows that individual to make informed decisions about their health.

“As the Chronic Care Coordinator, I will work closely with you and your healthcare team to ensure you understand your medications, diet, activity, and overall lifestyle,” added Ryan. “We will communicate on a regular basis and I will be available to answer any questions you may have and ensure you have the resources you need.”

After receiving a diabetes diagnosis, McGregor resident Jim Reneau enlisted the help of Ryan, along with his primary care provider Brian Quick, Physician Assistant-Certified at Crossing Rivers Health Clinic in Fennimore, and Shelby Moose, Registered Dietitian at Crossing Rivers Health, to manage the changes necessary to lead a healthy lifestyle.

“Linda contacted me twice a week to collect my blood sugar levels and would report those to Brian,” Reneau explained. “We would adjust my medications as needed. Now, my levels are where they should be. I worked with Shelby on my diet to ensure I was taking in what I needed to maintain my levels. It was a team effort and I couldn’t do it by myself. I’m grateful for all their hard work.”

Additional information on the Chronic Care Management program can be found at crossingrivers.org/chroniccare or by calling the Crossing Rivers Health Clinic at 608.357.2500.

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