Investigating correlates of clinical social workers' attitudes toward managed care

In a state-wide survey of Florida licensed clinical social workers (N = 260), this study investigated the correlates of attitudes toward managed care. Seven predictor variables were identified from the standard regression model that account for 25.9% of the variance: (a) misdiagnosis (Beta = -.28, p = .000), (b) familiarity with practice strategies recommended by HMOs and insurance companies (Beta = .25, p = .000), (c) skills to advocate for clients in managed care environments (Beta = -.20, p = .002), (d) classroom educators prepare practitioners for a career in the real world (Beta = .17, p = .003), (e) documentation ensures agency reimbursement (Beta = -.14, p= .013), (f) service delivery has changed dramatically (Beta = -.12, p = .034), and (g) using brief/solution-focused therapies (Beta = .12, p = .029). Secondary analysis found overall negative attitudes toward managed care from this sample of licensed clinical social workers. Implications are discussed.