Dismiss Modal

When the COVID-19 pandemic began, Jean Brennan’s daily habits completely changed. She reduced her physical activity when the gym stopped having classes, started baking again and developed unhealthy eating habits. Brennan, who is diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis and heart disease, needed accountability.

“I needed somebody just to keep me on track,” Jean said. “I just want to be healthy. There’s a lot of illness in my family.”

In 2021, Jean found motivation through Beaufort Memorial’s Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) Care Coordination Services, a free program offered to BlueCross© BlueShield© members who receive care through a Beaufort Memorial physician.

Read More: Managing a Family History of Heart Disease

Each week, Jean has a 20-minute phone conversation with Care Coordinator Heather Paulick to review her goals and check on her progress. Paulick provides health coaching, education and, at times, even emotional support.

“It’s been a great journey working with (Paulick),” said Jean. “Having the encouragement and knowing that I’m going to be talking to somebody on Friday morning keeps me looking for new (healthy) recipes, making sure that I’m working out and taking care of myself. I need that kind of accountability.”

Since the start of the care coordination, Jean, 64, has achieved several milestones: She eats three balanced meals a day, goes to the farmers market to add more fresh fruits and vegetables into her diet and has scheduled more time to visit with friends. She’s also improved her mobility and self-esteem.

“My self-esteem has improved like you wouldn’t believe,” Jean said. “I’ve lost 30 pounds, and Heather was the first person I told when I got my skinny jeans on.”

Jean’s husband, Jim, 63, also participates in the care coordination services. He says the program is keeping him accountable, too.

“This is true health lifestyle-type coaching that, for me, runs the gamut from mental health all the way through to your actual health,” said Jim who’s had several health challenges in recent years.

Read More: New Fitness Goals for a New Year

When Jim started the program, he was recovering from radiation treatment for prostate cancer. He also has a lung condition that Beaufort Memorial’s pulmonary specialists are helping him to manage. Jim appreciates that his care coordinator can review his medical records and go through the information with him.

“It’s been phenomenal to have that avenue in health care where it’s not all online or through an app. It’s a human being that you know is there that you formed a relationship with,” said Jim.

“Working with Jean and Jim has been a treat. They have truly taken the suggestions and incorporated them into their daily lives,” Paulick said. “The concept of self-care is one that I have spoken with them about, stressing that if they are not taking care of themselves on a basic level first then nothing else will matter.”

When Jim started the program, he had limited physical activity. Now, he walks roughly three miles a day, makes smarter food choices (especially when dining out), got his blood pressure under control and has improved his mental health. He’s committing to less and allowing himself time to recharge. “It’s very important to rest. I ran myself into the ground.”

How Patient-Centered Medical Home Works

Patient-Centered Medical Home is a model of patient care that uses a team-based approach and emphasizes care coordination and communication to provide quality care. People who are insured by BlueCross© BlueShield© and see a Beaufort Memorial primary care provider may be included in the program.

Care coordination services are available to anyone enrolled in the PCMH program. The goal of care coordination services is to help people improve their overall health. All services are provided by phone. Care coordination services may include education, support, health coaching and coordinating medical services.

For Jim and Jean Brennan, married 30 years, they continue to work on balance, diet and exercise.

“I’m not sure I would feel as good as I do today if it wasn’t for having my care coordinator there,” Jim said.

If you are a BlueCross© BlueShield© member who receives care through a Beaufort Memorial physician, let us help you better understand and improve your health conditions. Learn more about the program online or contact Sandy Perks at 843-522-5674 or PCMHinfo@bmhsc.org.