How can you help clients with limited financial resources in case management?

1 Assess their needs and strengths

The first step in case management is to conduct a comprehensive assessment of your client's needs and strengths. This will help you identify their goals, preferences, challenges, and resources. You can use various tools and methods to gather information, such as interviews, questionnaires, observations, and records. You should also involve your client in the assessment process and respect their autonomy and dignity.

3 Link them to resources

One of the main roles of a case manager is to link your client to the appropriate resources that can help them meet their needs and improve their situation. These resources may include financial assistance, housing, health care, education, employment, legal aid, counseling, and more. You should be familiar with the eligibility criteria, application procedures, and availability of these resources and help your client navigate them. You should also advocate for your client's rights and interests when dealing with other service providers.

4 Monitor and evaluate progress

Another important role of a case manager is to monitor and evaluate your client's progress and outcomes. You should regularly communicate with your client and review their service plan to see if they are making progress towards their goals and if they are satisfied with the services they receive. You should also collect and document data and evidence that show the impact and effectiveness of your interventions. You should use this information to adjust and update the service plan as needed.

5 Coordinate and collaborate with others

As a case manager, you should also coordinate and collaborate with other professionals and agencies that are involved in your client's care. This will help you ensure that your client receives consistent, comprehensive, and quality services that meet their needs and preferences. You should establish and maintain good working relationships with other service providers and share relevant information and feedback with them. You should also respect your client's confidentiality and privacy and obtain their consent before disclosing any information.

6 Terminate or transition the case

The final step in case management is to terminate or transition the case when your client has achieved their goals, no longer needs your services, or requires a different level of care. You should prepare your client for this change and provide them with the necessary information and support. You should also evaluate the overall outcomes and effectiveness of your case management and document the closure of the case. You should also follow up with your client as appropriate and refer them to other resources if needed.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?