What role do case managers fulfill in the healthcare system?

Case managers play a crucial role in the healthcare system primarily by coordinating care and facilitating access to services for patients. This function involves assessing a patient’s needs, creating a care plan, and helping to connect patients with appropriate resources, such as specialists, mental health services, and community resources. They act as a liaison between patients and healthcare providers, ensuring continuity of care and addressing any barriers that may affect a patient's health outcomes.

Rather than directly providing medical treatments or conducting research, case managers focus on managing a patient's overall care trajectory and ensuring that all aspects of a patient's needs are being met in an effective and timely manner. This role is essential in navigating complex healthcare systems, especially for patients with chronic illnesses or those requiring multiple services. By facilitating communication among various stakeholders in a patient’s care, case managers enhance the coordination of services and contribute to improved health outcomes.