The Importance of Care Management & Planning for

Individuals with Disabilities and Long-Term Care Needs

At the Good Shepherd Fund (GSF), we believe that every individual deserves to be valued for who they are—not by their diagnosis, condition, or age, but by their unique needs, beliefs, and preferences. Our mission is to enhance and preserve lives by prioritizing the well-being of individuals above all else. As a 501(c)(3) national non-profit trustee, we serve those navigating the challenges of disabilities and long-term care, providing support that feels as personal and kind as the care you’d expect from a family member or friend. 

Care Management & Planning: Enhancing Lives through Compassionate Support 

Life can present difficult and unexpected circumstances, especially for individuals with disabilities or long-term care needs. When these challenges arise, having a dedicated professional to help guide and manage your care can make a significant difference. Our Care Management and Planning services offer a comprehensive approach, creating customized support plans that aim to promote independent living while ensuring quality care. 

With our Care Managers’ expertise, we provide as much or as little support as needed—whether it’s coordinating wellness checks, overseeing caregivers and social workers, navigating public benefits, handling household budgeting, or taking care of bill payments. We are there at every step, helping our clients achieve the highest possible quality of life. 

Our Care Management services are exclusively available in California and Colorado, designed to empower individuals, families, and their support networks. 

Personalized Care Plans Tailored to Unique Needs 

At GSF, no two clients are alike, which is why we create individualized plans that reflect each person’s unique circumstances and goals. Whether the initial consultation takes place at a hospital, facility, or in the comfort of a client’s home, our Care Managers meet clients wherever they are—physically and emotionally. We work alongside families, financial advisors, attorneys, and healthcare professionals to provide a seamless and coordinated approach to care. 

Our services go beyond the basics of care management, extending into areas such as: 

• Public Benefits Enrollment: Navigating complex government programs to ensure clients receive all the benefits to which they are entitled. 
• Financial Oversight: Assisting with budgeting and financial planning to ensure long-term stability. 
• Legal and Estate Planning Support: Working with legal advisors on matters like special needs trusts, guardianship, and medical directives. 

The Impact of a Dedicated Care Manager 

Having a Care Manager who is deeply committed to the client’s well-being can significantly impact their life. Here are some of the ways that dedicated care management makes a difference:

• Promotes Independence
  Care Management is not about taking control—it’s about empowering individuals to live life on their terms. Our Care Managers work to ensure clients can maintain independence by providing the right level of support to meet their needs. For example, we might arrange for modifications to a client’s home or vehicle to accommodate mobility challenges, allowing them to live safely and comfortably. 
• Ensures Quality Care and Support
  Our Care Managers collaborate with healthcare teams to navigate insurance, manage medical equipment needs, and coordinate therapeutic services. This attention to detail ensures clients receive excellent healthcare that aligns with their wishes. 

• Connects Clients with Resources
  We help clients access durable medical equipment, transportation solutions, and home remodeling services. Additionally, we establish or expand relationships with local providers to ensure that our clients receive the best care possible, no matter where they live. 
• Provides Peace of Mind to Families
  Families can trust that their loved one’s needs are being met with the utmost compassion and professionalism. Knowing that a Care Manager is actively monitoring and advocating for the client allows family members to focus on their relationship with their loved one, rather than becoming overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities. 

Our Approach to Compassionate Care 

GSF is committed to helping our clients live their best possible lives by taking an individualized approach to care management. Our team of GSF CARE professionals supports clients in every aspect of their lives, including: 

• Medical Coordination: Working with healthcare providers to schedule appointments, manage therapies, and ensure proper use of medical equipment. 
• Legal Guidance: Assisting with legal documents, including medical directives and disability case management. 
• Financial Management: Developing and overseeing budgets, providing guidance on government benefits like SSI and SSDI, and conducting annual trust evaluations. 
• Home and Transportation Modifications: Coordinating home remodeling or vehicle adaptations to accommodate special needs. 
• Insurance Navigation: Helping clients understand their options for Medicare, Medicaid, and other benefits, as well as submitting claims on their behalf.

Our Care Management Process: A Path to Peace of Mind 

Our Care Management process ensures that we fully understand each client’s needs and goals, so we can deliver the best care possible. Here’s how it works: 

1. Step 1: Free Consultation
   We start by offering a complimentary consultation with one of our experts to discuss the client’s circumstances and assign a Care Manager. 
2. Step 2: On-Site Visit
   The assigned Care Manager conducts an on-site visit to assess the client’s living situation, meet with family and healthcare team members, and learn more about the client’s personal goals and preferences. 
3. Step 3: Developing the Care Plan
   After gathering this information, the Care Manager creates a personalized care plan outlining the steps needed to achieve the client’s goals. 
4. Step 4: Care Coordination
   The Care Manager coordinates the implementation of the care plan, connecting with the client’s network of support and any other experts needed to execute the plan, such as sourcing a modified vehicle or arranging for home renovations. 
5. Step 5: Ongoing Support
   Regular check-ins and visits ensure that the care plan remains up-to-date and effective, adapting to any changes in the client’s condition or circumstances. 

About GSF CARE 

The Good Shepherd Fund established the GSF CARE program to address the critical need for hands-on, compassionate care among clients facing life-altering events. Our experienced team has a background in critical care, rehabilitation, insurance, and case management, enabling us to provide expert support through a variety of challenges. 

By partnering with families, attorneys, healthcare professionals, and financial advisors, we work together to enhance and preserve life. We build a network of support around each client to ensure they receive the comprehensive care they deserve. 

If you or a loved one could benefit from our Care Management & Planning services, please reach out to us for a free consultation. Together, we’ll create a plan that prioritizes the well-being of the individual and helps them navigate the journey ahead with dignity and confidence. 

The Good Shepherd Fund

Your Loved One’s Well-Being Is Our Priority

A 501(C)(3) National Non-Profit Fiduciary

Dedicated to enhancing the lives of minors, aging adults, and persons with disabilities for over 50 years.

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