Two years ago, I called a new participant in one of the chronic care programs offered by my employer a health management company that provides telephonic nursing services for people with chronic conditions. As a Registered Nurse, I help people with heart disease, diabetes, asthma, COPD, and musculoskeletal problems like osteoarthritis and headaches. On the first call, I explain that this is an educational program designed to help them be proactive about their health, so they can be as healthy as possible.
The participant, a 61-year-old real estate agent newly diagnosed with diabetes, had just been assigned to me. She was very angry, and somewhat hostile the first time I called. Its not unusual; I run into that with some employees, many of whom feel like they are being forced to participate in the programs to avoid higher premiums.
