The Role of Case Manager in a Catastrophic Injury Case

The role of a Case Manager in Catastrophic Injury

Catastrophic injury cases are complicated and difficult to manage. A catastrophic injury is a physical injury or illness that is regarded as extreme or particularly serious, has a considerable impact on the victim of the injury or illness and needs a considerable amount of medical treatment. Catastrophic injuries may not always be permanent but can take months or years to heal.

It is clear that in the field of catastrophic injury a major coordinating role is required to ensure the injured party’s complex needs are identified and met. This is the need for a Case Manager.

Turner- Stokes 2008, demonstrated that there is now a substantial body of high-quality research evidence for the effectiveness, and indeed the cost-effectiveness, of rehabilitation.

Case management is required to facilitate achievement of an optimal result by collaborating with all parties involved, assessing priorities and options, coordinating services, and educating and communicating with all concerned. (Pressman et al 2006).

Case management with all its different name, variations and contexts continues to support the coordination, integration and of health and social care in many different context for different health conditions.

case managers

Case study

John is a 25-year-old man who has suffered an ABI with frontal lobe damage, he has undergone a period of rehabilitation in a specialist centre and has now been discharged home. John has been left with a mixture of physical, cognitive and behavioural problems, he lives with his partner and 2 children. Prior to his accident, he was working full-time as a welder in a boat building yard.

How many people do you think the Case Manager will be involved with for John’s care and rehabilitation?

  • Client
  • Insurance company
  • Solicitor
  • Paralegal
  • Client's partner
  • Litigation friend
  • Occupational Therapist
  • Physiotherapist
  • GP
  • Neuro- Psychologist
  • Counsellor
  • SALT
  • Support worker team of 4
  • Employer
  • Gardener
  • Cleaner

Collaborative care

The collaborative efforts and expertise of all these individuals—16 in total—are essential in addressing the physical, cognitive, and behavioral challenges faced by the client. By coordinating and integrating the support and services provided by this diverse team, the Case Manager ensures that John receives the comprehensive care and rehabilitation he needs to rebuild his life and regain independence.

The role of a Case Manager in catastrophic injury cases cannot be overstated. Their ability to navigate complex needs, coordinate multiple stakeholders, and facilitate optimal outcomes makes them invaluable in the pursuit of comprehensive care and rehabilitation. Through their expertise and dedication, Case Managers play a vital role in supporting individuals like John on their path to recovery and a better quality of life. If you'd like any more information on the role of a Case Manger in catastrophic injury cases, please don't hesitate to get in touch. We're here to help.

Posted on December 17th 2021

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