Case managers' roles and functions: Commission for Case Manager Certification's 2004 research, part II

Area of Science:

• Healthcare Management
• Professional Certification
• Workforce Analysis

Background:

• The Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC) conducted a study to ensure its examination accurately reflects current case management practice.
• Previous research (Part I) identified essential functions and knowledge areas based on a national survey.
• This study (Part II) further analyzes empirical data to define case management domains.

Purpose of the Study:

• To validate the currency and relevancy of the certified case manager examination.
• To identify statistically derived activity and knowledge domains in case management practice.
• To explore demographic influences on case management roles and predict future field changes.

Main Methods:

• Exploratory factor analysis was used to analyze survey data from practicing case managers.
• Statistical methods were employed to identify empirical domains of case management.
• Comparative analysis was performed across demographic subgroups.

Main Results:

• Empirical activity and knowledge domains of case management practice were identified through factor analysis.
• Similarities and differences in practice were observed among various case manager subgroups.
• Participant perceptions of future changes in case management were summarized.

Conclusions:

• The study provides a statistically validated framework for understanding case management practice.
• Findings support the ongoing refinement of the certified case manager examination.
• The research offers insights into the evolving landscape of case management.