Managing the Provision of Chronic Health Care

The Managing the Provision of Chronic Health Care course is divided into five key units, each focusing on different aspects of chronic disease management.

Unit 1: Definitions
This unit defines chronic disease, presenting the variations in definitions across major health organisations, such as the CDC and WHO. It highlights the complexities of managing chronic diseases, their prolonged duration, and their impact on daily living and healthcare systems. The course sets the foundation for understanding the core concepts of chronic care management​.

Unit 2: Chronic Disease Management History
This unit delves into the historical evolution of chronic disease management, tracing its origins back to Wagner’s 1996 publication. It discusses the transition from acute care models to a more structured, protocol-driven approach suitable for chronic conditions, as well as the increasing use of guidelines and evidence-based medicine in healthcare.

Unit 3: Patient-Centred Care
The focus of this unit is on patient-centred care, which emphasises the patient’s autonomy in managing their health. It discusses the shift from traditional clinician-driven care to a collaborative model where the patient and physician work together. The unit covers the importance of internal motivation and shared decision-making in achieving long-term health outcomes​.

Unit 4: Using Chronic Disease Management Models in Clinical Practice
This unit provides practical insights into implementing chronic disease management models in a clinical setting. It outlines the major components of successful chronic care, such as team-based care, the use of explicit plans and protocols, and systems for monitoring patient progress. It also covers the Australian Medicare Benefits Schedule and how it supports chronic care.

Unit 5: Case Study
The final unit presents a real-world case study to apply the concepts discussed throughout the course. Participants will walk through the creation of a chronic disease management plan for a patient, setting healthcare goals, coordinating treatments, and reviewing outcomes. This case study reinforces the importance of collaboration between healthcare providers and patients​.

This course equips healthcare professionals with the tools and knowledge to manage chronic diseases effectively, ensuring better patient outcomes and coordinated care in clinical practice.