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Committee on Ways and Means For Immediate Release Disease Management Would Improve Patients’ Well-being WASHINGTON-- Many Americans will confront a chronic health illness in their lifetime, such as diabetes, heart disease or asthma. Disease management programs are effective in coordinating patient care so that those afflicted can lead better, more comfortable lives. Some providers have incorporated disease management programs, but only to a limited extent. Health care for those in the Medicare program with chronic illnesses has been poorly coordinated across sites of care and is often fragmented. Recently, the Department of Health and Human Services announced it will begin three pilot programs to begin to realize the benefits of disease management. Patients who need treatment should have access to health care that is both affordable and available. This week the Subcommittee on Health will explore ways disease management programs can effectively offer care to patients in coordination with Medicare. Chairman Nancy L. Johnson (R-CT) said, “As Congress modernizes and strengthens Medicare, we must recognize the significant role disease management can play in improving lives. By encouraging widespread incorporation of disease management programs in Medicare, we will help improve patient outcomes while reducing health costs.”
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