This case study examines the care provided for a young man with two complex disease processes. Management of the pain caused by one disease resulted in acceleration of the associated comorbid illness. This patient scenario demonstrates the need for coordination of care by one health care provider and illustrates the fractured nature of our specialist-driven health care system. Doctor of nursing practice-prepared advanced practice registered nurses who specialize in comprehensive care are prepared to coordinate care and improve quality of services provided by establishing a patient-centered medical home (PCMH) for every patient, especially those with complex or comorbid illnesses.
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