One of the fundamental goals of care management software applications like Acuity Advanced Care is to empower care managers to help manage patient needs over the care continuum. Enhancing the opportunity to support patients during transitions of care is now paramount to ensure that the best clinical and financial outcomes are achieved.

One of the best resources for care managers is the nonprofit group, the National Transitions of Care Coalition (NTOCC). The organization was established in 2006 and brings together a wide array of stakeholders who are “dedicated to improving the quality of care coordination and communication when patients are transferred from one level of care to another.” Visit www.ntocc.org for information.

The website offers free tools healthcare professionals can use to assist patients including:

• Patient bill of rights during transitions of care;

• Guidelines for hospital stays;

• Several health care and medication tracking forms; and

• Access to a transitions toolkit.

In addition, the American Board of Quality Assurance and Utilization Review Physicians, Inc. (ABQAURP) and the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) just announced a new sub-specialty certification for “Transitions of Care” and “Case Management,” which will be implemented in 2012.

For more details about the new certification program, go to www.abqaurp.org or send an email to info@abqaurp.org. See also TCS’ May 24, 2011 blog on NTOCC on its website.