Hire Case Managers
A case manager is, first and foremost, a patient advocate. Through collaboration and a cycle of assessment, planning, facilitation, coordination, and evaluation, a case manager ensures that the needs of each patient are met to achieve the desired health outcome.
The first step in hiring a case manager is creating a compelling job post. It should be clear, concise, and detailed. Are you looking for candidates who live in a specific area? What is the schedule? Is prior experience required? Carefully outline the responsibilities as well as requirements. These details will help candidates picture themselves working in your facility or institution.
Aside from general job boards, it is best for hiring managers to post job announcements on healthcare-specific job boards, online groups, and in community groups as well. Getting referrals from other medical professionals and employees themselves is a helpful way to source candidates. Your staff may already know someone with experience as a case manager so let them know about the job opening.
Case Manager Responsibilities
After careful assessment of the patient’s needs, the case manager is in charge of identifying the appropriate service providers or facilities that the patient needs throughout the treatment and management plan. The case manager ensures that resources add value to the patient’s health while being efficient and cost-effective.
A case manager covers various cases at a time and is accountable for each at any point in the patient care cycle. Case managers frequently communicate with the patients and their families, offer helpful information about their treatment plan, medication, and procedures. Similarly, case managers build relationships, coordinate with all the members of the interdisciplinary team, and service providers about the patient’s care plan. Case managers assist patients in securing funding and resources for medical care if needed.
Additionally, the case manager is responsible for regularly checking in on the patient, asking for feedback, and monitoring the delivery of care. Documenting the patient’s progress and fulfillment of the care plan is imperative. Depending on the evaluation, the case manager may adjust the care plan as needed to achieve the desired patient outcome.
Lastly, case managers treat patients with respect, compassion, and empathy. They uphold patient confidentiality and professionalism at all times and follow legislation, healthcare laws, and internal policies.
Case Manager Skills and Qualifications
To qualify as a case manager, a candidate should have a bachelor’s or master’s degree in social work or any related field. Previous work experience in case management is typically required. Knowledge of health care best practices, legislation, geriatric care, social work, and long-term care are valuable. Lastly, candidates must be proficient in Microsoft or Google office systems.
An ideal candidate is a person who is compassionate, trustworthy, and professional. Candidates must have excellent organizational, multi-tasking, and customer service skills. Moreover, strong communication skills are a must as case managers interact closely with patients, their families, and other healthcare professionals.
Case managers work hand in hand with patients and for patients – providing them much-needed support and guidance on their road to health and a full recovery.
