Building Your Care Team
A guide to identifying and coordinating with healthcare providers for comprehensive care
Building an effective care team is essential for providing the best possible care for your loved one. A well-coordinated team of healthcare professionals can help ensure that all aspects of care are addressed, from medical treatment to emotional support.
Primary Care Physician
Coordinates overall care and manages general health
Key Responsibilities
- •Annual checkups and preventive care
- •Managing chronic conditions
- •Coordinating with specialists
- •Prescribing medications
When to Contact
Regular appointments, new symptoms, medication changes
Specialists
Doctors who focus on specific conditions or body systems
Key Responsibilities
- •Diagnosing and treating specific conditions
- •Performing specialized procedures
- •Monitoring disease progression
- •Adjusting treatment plans
When to Contact
As recommended by primary care doctor or when condition-specific issues arise
Nurses & Nurse Practitioners
Provide day-to-day care and patient education
Key Responsibilities
- •Administering medications
- •Monitoring vital signs
- •Patient education
- •Care coordination
When to Contact
Questions about medications, symptoms, or care instructions
Pharmacist
Medication experts who ensure safe drug use
Key Responsibilities
- •Reviewing medications for interactions
- •Providing medication counseling
- •Managing prescriptions
- •Answering medication questions
When to Contact
Before starting new medications, questions about side effects, refills
Social Worker
Helps navigate healthcare systems and find resources
Key Responsibilities
- •Connecting to community resources
- •Assisting with insurance
- •Emotional support
- •Care planning
When to Contact
Need help finding resources, insurance issues, emotional support
Physical/Occupational Therapist
Helps maintain or improve physical function
Key Responsibilities
- •Improving mobility and strength
- •Teaching adaptive techniques
- •Recommending assistive devices
- •Fall prevention
When to Contact
Mobility issues, need for adaptive equipment, after surgery or injury
Care Team Coordination Tips
Need Help Building Your Care Team?
Our patient advocates can help you identify the right healthcare providers and coordinate care for your loved one's specific needs.