Chronic Care Management

What is Chronic Care Management (CCM)?

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) recognizes Chronic Care Management (CCM) as a critical component of primary care that contributes to better health and care for individuals. CCM allows healthcare professionals to be reimbursed for the time and resources used to manage Medicare patients’ health between face-to-face appointments.

CCM services may be furnished for Medicare patients with two or more chronic conditions who are at significant risk of death, acute exacerbation/decompensation, or functional decline.

CCM activities include those that support comprehensive care management for patients outside of the office setting. Services include interactions with patients by telephone or secure email to review medical records and test results or provide self-management education and support. Services also include interactions with the patient’s other healthcare providers to exchange health information, as well as management of care transitions and coordination of home- and community-based services. CCM requires that patients have 24/7 access to physicians or other qualified healthcare professionals or clinical staff to address urgent needs.