A social work practice model of case management: the case management grid

Area of Science:

• Social Work Practice
• Human Services
• Community Support

Background:

• Case management is a core component of social work.
• The field lacks a clear conceptualization of case management.
• Existing definitions often conflate practice with administrative contexts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To conceptualize case management in social work practice.
• To differentiate case management practice from its administrative context.
• To delineate the core dimensions of case management.

Main Methods:

• Conceptual analysis of case management practice.
• Separation of practice from administrative structures.
• Delineation of enabling and facilitating dimensions.

Main Results:

• Case management practice involves enabling individuals and facilitating interaction with the social environment.
• The social work case manager integrates formal care systems with family and community activities.
• A case management grid framework is proposed to illustrate practice approaches.

Conclusions:

• A clear conceptualization of case management is essential for effective social work practice.
• The dimensions of enabling and facilitating provide a framework for understanding case management roles.
• Integrating individual potential with social environmental interaction is central to case management.