What does "care coordination" involve?

Care coordination involves the organization of patient care activities among various participants, including healthcare providers, patients, and other stakeholders involved in delivering healthcare services. This process ensures that all aspects of a patient’s care are efficiently managed and communicated among the different providers involved. It aims to improve the quality of care, reduce duplication of services, and enhance patient outcomes by ensuring that everyone is on the same page regarding a patient's treatment plan and progress.

In contrast, isolating patient care activities, eliminating communication among clinicians, and focusing only on hospital services do not align with the fundamental principles of care coordination. Effective care coordination relies heavily on open communication and collaboration among all parties involved, making integration and teamwork essential components for successful patient outcomes.