Which concept is essential in the practice of case management?

The concept of patient-centered care is essential in the practice of case management because it prioritizes the individual needs, preferences, and values of patients in their health care journey. This approach encourages active participation of patients in their own care decisions, fostering a holistic perspective that takes into account not just medical needs but also emotional, social, and cultural factors.

In case management, adopting a patient-centered care model leads to improved outcomes as it aligns the care plan with the patient's specific circumstances, ultimately enhancing their engagement and satisfaction. This focus ensures that services are tailored to fit the unique requirements of each patient, promoting better adherence to treatment plans, reducing barriers to care, and efficiently utilizing resources.

While concepts like cost-effectiveness, provider-focused approaches, and integrated service delivery are valuable in the healthcare field, they do not place the patient at the core of the management process as effectively as patient-centered care does. Ultimately, prioritizing the patients’ perspectives enhances the relevance and effectiveness of the case management process, leading to more responsive and compassionate care.