Relieving the pressure
- January 21, 2025
Case manager’s call leads to reassurance and awareness of unexpected benefits
Melissa Keen’s blood pressure was a little high … again … so her doctor wrote a prescription for a low-dose blood pressure medication.
High blood pressure, she thought, was something she would have to take medicine for.
Then, a few days later, a call came to the White Hall resident’s phone. The screen read “Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield.”
“I was surprised,” Keen said. “I thought it might be about my insurance coverage or something like that.”
Instead, the caller was Arkansas Blue Cross nurse case manager Jaime Scallion, R.N., CCM, who lives nearby in Woodlawn. Scallion provides services to members of the Federal Employee Program.
Scallion was calling to discuss the possible side effects of Keen’s new blood pressure medication and to encourage her to alert her doctor if she experienced any.
“Melissa mentioned that her blood pressure was always high during her appointments, and I explained that White Coat Syndrome is real,” Scallion said. The syndrome occurs when the stress and pressures of making it to an appointment and being in a doctor’s office can cause a high blood pressure reading.
“I suggested she have them recheck her blood pressure at the end of her visits, after having calmed during the appointment, when her blood pressure will likely be lower,” Scallion said. “This helps with any potential adjustments of medication that may have been considered and helps me and my team improve the effectiveness and quality of healthcare our members receive.”
The case manager also shared with Keen the different incentives, benefits, and rewards that can be earned through her insurance plan.
“Jaime was very kind and happy to answer any questions I had,” said Keen, who was impressed by all the available additional services.
And Scallion is glad her phone call led to such a positive outcome.
“I’m truly happy to know that what I thought was just a call about blood pressure had such an impact on her,” Scallion said. “This is a great reminder that the simple things I do can make a big difference for someone.”
Do you need a case manager?
It can be overwhelming when you or someone close to you is dealing with a health issue. This is when an Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield case manager can help. They work as an advocate for you or your loved one.
Our case managers are experienced registered nurses who work directly with members to make sure they receive the medical care they need as efficiently as possible. They reach out to members after surgery, help them find support services and medical equipment and teach them how to care for themselves.
They work closely with members’ families and medical care providers to address health issues from every angle.
Our R.N. case managers help guide you through the stresses of challenging health situations. To connect with a case manager of your own, just call the customer service number on the back of your member ID card.