The philosophy of the Health Net Federal Services, LLC (HNFS) Chronic Care/Disease Management (DM) program is to empower eligible TRICARE beneficiaries to become active partners in their health care to achieve improved health outcomes.
The DM program focuses on improving the management of seven chronic conditions: anxiety, asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), coronary artery disease (CAD), diabetes, depression, and heart failure. Educating eligible TRICARE beneficiaries on disease management and the importance of partnering with the health care team are key parts of the DM program.
The program may include:
- Mailings of current evidence-based, condition-specific materials
- Mailings of preventive health education materials
- Telephone sessions with a DM specialist
Beneficiaries likely to benefit from the DM program include those:
- Interested in gaining knowledge to improve one's health and better manage their DM program-related health condition.
- Newly diagnosed with one or more of the seven DM program conditions.
- Recently hospitalized for a DM program-related health condition.
- Seen at an emergency department (one or more visits) for a DM program-related health condition.
Why did HNFS contact me about participating in a program?
HNFS delivers its DM program in partnership with the Defense Health Agency. We may contact you regarding a disease management program based upon your claims and treatment history. This includes emergency department visits, inpatient hospitalizations, outpatient visits, and medication usage.
In some cases, you may have been referred directly to the DM program through a family member, hospital discharge planner, treating physician, case management staff, HNFS staff, or military hospital or clinic.
Do I need to participate?
While there are numerous benefits to participating in this program, if you were pre-selected or referred by another, you are not obligated to participate. The DM program is an opt-out program, which means eligible beneficiaries identified or referred for participation are considered enrolled unless they decline participation or lose TRICARE eligibility.
Am I eligible to participate?
If you have one of the seven chronic conditions, you are able to self-nominate to participate in a program (see how below). Most programs require you to be age 18-64, but two programs are open to children as well:
- Asthma program: ages 3-64
- Diabetes program: ages 12-64
You must also not be on Medicare or have other health insurance as your primary insurance coverage.
Will any of my existing TRICARE benefits change if I participate in this program?
Participation in this program will not affect any of your TRICARE benefits.
What is the cost of this program?
This program is provided at no cost to you.
What are the advantages of a DM program?
There are many, including:
- Convenience. You do not have to drive anywhere or sit in a waiting room. You can talk with one of our state licensed, condition-specific specialists at home or wherever you decide is convenient for you.
- Cost. This program is provided at no cost.
- Anonymity/privacy. You can participate in this program in the privacy of your own home.
- Homebound/limited access. There is no travel required so your physical ability or location will not limit your access to the help you need.
- Flexibility. Our office hours are from 8 a.m.-6 p.m. in the beneficiary’s local time zone. In the event a representative is unavailable, or if you are calling outside of office hours, you will be able to leave a detailed message and your call will be returned as soon as possible. If you have an emergency health issue, please call 911.
What is a DM specialist?
A DM specialist is a licensed clinician in nursing, behavioral health or other health profession who specializes in the management and treatment of certain health conditions. DM specialists may include:
- registered nurses (RN)
- licensed marriage and family therapists (LMFT)
- respiratory therapists (RT) for asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
Consultant services are also available. Some consultants you may talk with include:
- registered dietitian nutritionists (RDN)
- exercise physiologists (EP)
- medical social workers
- respiratory therapists (RT)
I see a specialist for my condition. Will this program interfere with my care from my specialist or primary care manager?
This program will not interfere with the care you receive from your specialist or primary care manager (PCM). This program is not meant to replace any treatment you already receive. It is meant to provide you with clinical education, information, support, and guidance. As part of the program, we will obtain your permission to communicate with your PCM (and also your specialist if you would like) through an online portal, mail or telephone to keep him or her updated on your goals and progress in this program.
How do I know this will work for me?
Our DM specialists have years of experience in applying the principles of our program to meet your specific needs. If you are willing to make changes, learn new skills and start taking a more active role in your health, it is likely you will find our program helpful.
What can I expect from this program?
This is typically a six month program. You can expect to spend between 30–45 minutes once a month with your DM specialist discussing your condition. Your DM specialist will assess your needs and teach you the skills needed to help you better manage your condition. Your DM specialist can also:
- Educate and empower you, so you can better monitor your condition and live a healthier lifestyle.
- Identify roadblocks and obstacles to treatment.
- Improve your understanding of your condition.
- Assist you in understanding your medication and the importance of taking it as prescribed.
- Discuss what to expect from treatment.
- Coach you on how to communicate effectively with your health care providers.
- Provide you with patient-friendly education materials.
- Provide resources, recommendations and coordinate referrals, such as:
- Provide resources and recommendations to address unmet needs.
- Initiate collaboration with your health care providers to better meet your needs.
- Help you identify local or national resources available to assist you with the management of your condition.
Is this program confidential?
Absolutely. We value your trust and handle your personal information according to the strictest industry standards and in accordance with federal HIPAA regulations. We will never discuss your information without your permission unless allowed or required by law.
Is this program available in other languages?
Yes. We contract with an interpreter service to offer our program in various languages as well as providing relay services to the deaf and hard of hearing.
How can I participate in a DM program?
Due to the TRICARE contract transition, HNFS is no longer accepting nominations into DM programs.
Questions? Concerns? Contact HNFS' Chronic Care/Disease Management department at 1-844-732-2436, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. local time.
