Fletcher et al (1984) distinguish between coordination as “the degree to which various components of care bear a useful relation to each other” and continuity as “the existence of some thread—individual, practitioner, group, or medical record—that bind together episodes of care” (p.409) and notes that they are not easily separable and often used to define one another.

The AAFP (American Academy of Family Physicians) defines “continuity of care” as the process by which the patient and the physician are cooperatively involved in ongoing health care management toward the goal of high quality, cost-effective medical care. (1983) (2003)

An emotional state marked by sadness, discouragement, and loss of self-worth that occurs in the elderly.

Medicaid is the United States health program for eligible individuals and families with low incomes and resources. It is a means tested program that is jointly funded by the states and federal government, and is managed by the states.

In Indiana, Medicaid is administered by the Family and Social Services Administration (FSSA).

Medicare is a Federal government program providing health insurance for people age 65 or older, people under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of all ages with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant). See Medicare.gov for current details on what is covered.