What is Care Management? A Complete Guide for Families
Care management coordinates medical care, insurance, and support for aging parents with chronic conditions. Learn how Medicare covers it and if your parent qualifies.
Mar 2, 2026
Example article body - Care management coordinates medical care, insurance, and support for aging parents with chronic conditions. Learn how Medicare covers it and if your parent qualifies. Free consultation available.
Key Takeaways
Private care management typically costs $75-$200 per hour depending on your location and the care manager's credentials.
If your parent has Medicare and two or more chronic conditions, they may qualify for Chronic Care Management (CCM), which Medicare covers at no cost to them. Some long-term care insurance policies also cover care management services.
FAQ
How much does care management cost?
Private care management typically costs $75-$200 per hour depending on your location and the care manager's credentials. However, if your parent has Medicare and two or more chronic conditions, they may qualify for Chronic Care Management (CCM), which Medicare covers at no cost to them. Some long-term care insurance policies also cover care management services.
What's the difference between a care manager and a caregiver?
A caregiver provides hands-on assistance with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. A care manager coordinates all aspects of care—medical appointments, insurance claims, home care services, and community resources—but typically doesn't provide direct personal care. Care managers have professional backgrounds in nursing, social work, or gerontology.
Does Medicare cover care management?
Yes, Medicare covers Chronic Care Management (CCM) services for beneficiaries with two or more chronic conditions expected to last at least 12 months. This includes at least 20 minutes per month of care coordination by clinical staff. Medicare also covers Transitional Care Management after hospital discharge and Behavioral Health Integration for mental health conditions.
How do I find a qualified care manager?
Look for credentials like Certified Care Manager (CCM), Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW), or Registered Nurse (RN) with geriatric specialization. The Aging Life Care Association maintains a directory of certified professionals. Ask for references, verify licenses, and ensure they have experience with conditions your parent has. Many offer free initial consultations.
When should I hire a care manager for my parent?
Consider care management when your parent has multiple chronic conditions, sees several specialists, struggles with medication management, has had recent hospitalizations, needs help navigating insurance, or when you live far away and can't coordinate care yourself. Early intervention prevents crises and reduces stress for the whole family.
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