Frequently Asked APCM Questions for Staff

What is Advanced Primary Care Management (APCM)?

APCM, also known as Connected Care, is a Medicare-supported program that provides proactive, coordinated support for primary care patients—whether managing a condition or simply maintaining their health. It bridges gaps between visits with routine check-ins, early issue detection, and personalized guidance, helping patients stay on top of their well-being while supporting value-based care goals.

APCM provides non-face-to-face care to help manage patient health between visits. Services include, but are not limited to:

● Care Management – Wellness reminders, symptom monitoring, and triage support.

● Administrative Assistance – Medication refills, prior authorizations, and chart updates.

● Care Coordination – Referrals, post-hospitalization follow-ups, and provider communication.

● Patient Communication – Regular phone check-ins, secure text messaging, and ongoing symptom tracking.

APCM is available to Medicare patients whose primary care provider assumes responsibility for their comprehensive care. This includes:

● Traditional Medicare beneficiaries

● Qualified Medicare Beneficiaries (QMBs) with no out-of-pocket costs

● Medicaid patients (eligibility varies by state)

Note: We use the more patient-friendly term “Connected Care” rather than “Advanced Primary Care Management” in patient-facing materials.

No. While text messaging is preferred, patients can also participate via phone calls, which are logged for billing.

Connected Care is a monthly program that provides proactive, personalized care to help you stay healthy. Even if you’re feeling well, APCM ensures you’re prepared for any changes in your health.

Patients receive text messages or phone calls for reminders, health tips, follow-ups, and symptom tracking.

They can reply directly with questions or request a call from a care manager.

Patients should contact their provider’s office or go to the nearest ER—APCM is for ongoing care, not emergencies.

Yes. All communications follow HIPAA regulations, ensuring patient data is protected.

Phamily is a HIPAA-compliant web-based platform that:

● Facilitates secure text messaging with patients.

● Logs communications for billing and documentation.

● Automates check-ins, reminders, and care coordination.