SeniorBridge's Dr. Eric Rackow featured in The New York Times

The New York Times - Opinion - June 4, 2010

Letter - Geriatric Care Managers

To the Editor:

“The Hospitalist” (news article, May 27), about the difficulties patients and their families face during and after hospital stays, brings to life the reality that our Medicare system was designed for acute, short-term care, but as we grow older, so does the need for continuous care for chronic conditions. 

While hospitalists can oversee the discharge process, the prevention of avoidable rehospitalizations must also include coordinated care in the home. Nurse and social worker geriatric care managers who ensure appropriate medical follow-up and continuity of care can prevent the majority of hospital readmissions. 

With adults 85 and older being the fastest-growing segment of the population, geriatric care managers will become increasingly important in supporting patients living with complicated chronic conditions. 

Eric C. Rackow
New York, June 2, 2010 

The writer, a doctor and immediate past president of N.Y.U. Hospitals Center, is president and chief executive of SeniorBridge, a health management company.

ARTICLE EXCERPT - Click to read the complete article at The New York Times - Opinion. Some news websites may require a paid subscription.