What is a PGCM?
 
A PGCM is a health and human service specialist who is a guide, advocate, and resource for families caring for an older relative.
A PGCM may be trained in any of a number of fields related to long-term-care. These included nursing, gerontology, social work, Psychology,
and other allied health professions, with a specialized focus on issues related to aging and elder care.
 
What does a PGCM do?
 

●      Conduct care planning assessments to identify problems and to provide solutions.
●      Screen, arrange and monitor in-home help of other services.
●      Provide short–or-long term assistance for caregivers living near or far away.
●      Review financial, legal, or medical issues and offer referral to geriatric specialists.
●      Provide crisis intervention.
●      Act as a liaison to families at a distance, overseeing care, and quickly alerting families to problems.
●      Assist with moving an older person to or from a retirement complex, assisted care home, or nursing home.
●      Provide consumer education and advocacy.
●      Offer counseling and support.
 
What is the National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers?
 
NAPGMC is an organization of practitioners whose goal is the advancement of experts assistance to older adults and their families. Members must meet certification requirements, follow a Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice.
 
How can a PGCM help our clients and families?
 
●      When seniors or their families need help with arranging a variety of services including financial planning, legal assistance, securing community resources or residential placement.
●      Seniors who need professional intervention for safety and healthcare which are compromised due to medical or cognitive issues.
●      Absent primary caregiver due to spouses age, decline in health, or death.
●      Long-distance caregivers who are unable to provide appropriate amount of assistance needed.
 
Who Pays for PGCM?
 
Unfortunately PGCM services are not covered by Medicare & Medicaid. In some instances, a private insurance plan with an Employee Assistance Program may offer caregiver benefits to cover the cost. And some Long-Term-Care policies cover PGCM services. More often than not, PGCM services are out-of-pocket.
 
Adapted: 2007 National Association of Professional Geriatric Care Managers