Use Group Visits to Support Self-Management for People with Chronic Conditions

Improving Chronic Care: Self-Management Support Identify the type of group visit (support group, educational group, etc.). Identify a group to focus on (e.g., Hispanic population, homeless, newly diagnosed). Identify and train the facilitator. Take care of logistics (space, staffing needs, billing requirements). Publicize group visits through an appropriate communication channel.   Tips Assess cultural/ethnic needs and identify appropriate methods/materials for patient education. Don't confuse this type of group with a group visit that includes the physician and medical care (described in Delivery System Design). Let the group determine the content of sessions. Leaders can monitor the content to assure that critical information is covered. Contact health centers that have been conducting group visits for "lesson learned" about logistics of scheduling, rooms, etc.
  • Make reminder calls.
  • Provide a meal.
  • Use lay leaders.
  • Anticipate patient's need for transportation and child care.

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    • Changes to Improve Chronic Care
      Organizations must focus on six fundamental areas that form a system that encourages high-quality chronic disease management, as well as develop productive interactions between patients who take an active part in their care and providers who have the necessary resources and expertise.
    • Group Visit Starter Kit
      The Group Visit Starter Kit will provide you with step-by-step instructions on how to begin running group visits with your patients.
    • Self-Management Support for People with Chronic Conditions
      Effective self-management is very different from telling patients what to do. Patients have a central role in determining their care, one that fosters a sense of responsibility for their own health.
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