Last updated on Jul 24, 2024

Here's how you can handle the key responsibilities of an entry-level Case Manager.

Embarking on a career as an entry-level case manager can be both exciting and daunting. You'll be responsible for coordinating and providing services to clients, which requires a unique blend of skills and knowledge. It's essential to understand the scope of your role and the best practices to fulfill your duties effectively. As you navigate your new position, remember that your primary goal is to advocate for and assist your clients in achieving their objectives, whether those involve health, social services, or legal support. With dedication and a clear understanding of your responsibilities, you can make a significant impact on the lives of those you serve.

1 Client Assessment

As an entry-level case manager, your first responsibility is to conduct thorough client assessments. This involves gathering detailed information about your clients' needs, preferences, and circumstances. You'll want to develop strong interviewing skills to obtain accurate data and establish trust with your clients. Remember, the information you collect is crucial for creating effective care plans, so take the time to listen attentively and ask the right questions. This step sets the foundation for all subsequent case management activities.

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Kelley Price MA, LPC

Dedicated, hard working employee
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It's imperative that you treat these sessions as an opportunity to get to know your client, really listen and ask open ended questions that allow them the chance to tell their story. If you use a form provided by your employer, get familiar with it so that the questions are being answered as part of the conversation and not just you reading them off the form. Smile, engage, and be mindful of your own body language and expressions. You might be the one that determines if they return to services, so do your best and be present!

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Gayle Miles

Housing Specialist @ CASS
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Working with domestic violence and the chronic homeless I've learned to treat each person with respect and dignity. Listen to their story and treat each story with passion to the person's feelings

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Cynthia Hardiman

Independent Business Owner at My Natural Calling Senior Services
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As a Case Manager for Holocaust Survivors with Home Care Services, my first visit to each one was to Listen Look & Ask, this way each assessment was individually tailored to the needs of the individual whether it was adding, reducing or extending services.

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2 Care Planning

Once you have assessed a client's needs, you'll need to craft a personalized care plan. This plan should outline the goals and steps necessary to address the client's situation. It's important to prioritize objectives and coordinate with other service providers to ensure a comprehensive approach. Effective care planning requires you to be organized, detail-oriented, and creative in problem-solving. Your ability to design a plan that is both practical and adaptable is key to your success in this role.

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Cynthia Hardiman

Independent Business Owner at My Natural Calling Senior Services
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Once a Listen Look & Ask assessment is completed, the Care Plan is simple to create and implement. Clients know what services they are eligible for, providing them in a Person Centered manner makes it easy and effective, clients are satisfied by the service because they had input and decision making in the planning.

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3 Resource Coordination

Resource coordination is a critical aspect of case management. You must be knowledgeable about the services available in your community and adept at connecting your clients with these resources. This means maintaining an up-to-date directory of service providers and understanding eligibility requirements for different programs. Your role as a facilitator is to ensure that clients receive the necessary support while navigating complex systems, which often involves advocating on their behalf.

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Cynthia Hardiman

Independent Business Owner at My Natural Calling Senior Services
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Yes resources are very important, reviewing the client profile prior to a visit gives you an idea of what you can offer, it’s also helpful to know if the resource you are considering has openings and availability for the client by way of mobility, transportation and engagement.

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4 Monitoring Progress

Monitoring your clients' progress is vital to ensure that the care plan is effective and that their needs are being met. This involves regularly checking in with clients and service providers, as well as adjusting the care plan as necessary. You must be proactive in identifying any issues or changes in your clients' circumstances that may require a response. Your attentiveness and responsiveness are crucial in providing ongoing support and achieving positive outcomes.

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Cynthia Hardiman

Independent Business Owner at My Natural Calling Senior Services
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Outside of the quarterly visit, it’s good relationship strengthening to call just to see how things are going, it goes a long way.

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5 Professional Development

To excel as a case manager, you must commit to ongoing professional development. This includes staying informed about best practices, legal requirements, and emerging trends in case management. Seek out training opportunities, join professional organizations, and network with other case managers to enhance your skills. Continuous learning will not only improve your ability to serve your clients but also advance your career in the long term.

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Cynthia Hardiman

Independent Business Owner at My Natural Calling Senior Services
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Always stay informed, involved and network, I’ve found that a conversation over a nice dinner is always a great way to keep the knowledge flowing

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6 Ethical Considerations

Ethical considerations are paramount in case management. You must uphold confidentiality, respect clients' autonomy, and avoid conflicts of interest. Being aware of the ethical guidelines that govern your profession will help you navigate complex situations with integrity. Always prioritize your clients' best interests while adhering to legal and organizational policies. Upholding ethical standards is essential for maintaining trust and professionalism in your role.

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7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?

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Here's how you can handle the key responsibilities of an entry-level Case Manager.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Client Assessment

2 Care Planning

3 Resource Coordination

4 Monitoring Progress

5 Professional Development

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Case Management

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Here's how you can handle the key responsibilities of an entry-level Case Manager.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

1 Client Assessment

2 Care Planning

3 Resource Coordination

4 Monitoring Progress

5 Professional Development

6 Ethical Considerations

7 Here’s what else to consider

Case Management

Rate this article

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