The introduction to case management course introduces the concept of case management, its history and place within the health care industry and its benefits for administrative personnel. Case management 101 courses provide information about case management models, and students review content concerning the responsibilities of case managers. Students also review financial concepts such as reimbursement options. This course is typically a prerequisite for a certification program.
Case management process, tools and models courses present information about the process of managing cases, the tools case managers use to solve health care problems and the models researchers use to adapt solutions to different health care population settings. Students learn about the process of managing cases by reviewing literature on the relationship between managers and health care professionals. They learn about how case managers use problem-solving tools to encourage communication and collaboration between health care professionals as they design community-based programs. Students review information about particular settings for the elderly and individuals with special needs.
The disease and disability course explores how case managers develop management systems for disease and disability. Students learn how to design management strategies for individuals who have long-term health care needs. They review literature about preventing complications and promoting health care for patients with long-term health care needs and who are also at risk. The course further explores management strategies for developing a system of processes for health care professionals who must manage the health care and human services for these types of clients.
In the legal and ethical issues course, students review the certification standards for the role and responsibilities of case managers. Standards of practice include those that the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) and the Commission on Case Manager Certification (CCMC) have adopted. Students learn about the professional code of conduct that case managers must adopt in designing health care delivery systems. Students also explore the impact of consumer advocacy and learn about managing care according to various standards bodies and ensuring ethical practices.