Community-based case management effectiveness in populations that abuse substances

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Substance Abuse Treatment
• Healthcare Management

Background:

• Global increase in substance abuse necessitates effective community-based interventions.
• Limited systematic synthesis on community-based case management for substance abuse populations.
• Existing empirical studies suggest positive impacts of case management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review evidence on the effectiveness of case management for adult substance abuse treatment in community settings.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review guided by Cochrane processes.
• Searched multiple databases (PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Ovid, Web of Science) for studies from 2000-2013.
• Included randomized controlled trials and assessed methodological quality.

Main Results:

• Seven randomized controlled trials were included.
• Community-based case management improved abstinence, reduced social problems, and increased satisfaction compared to usual care.
• Mixed results were observed regarding the reduction of healthcare service utilization.

Conclusions:

• Evidence supports case management as an effective care coordination strategy for substance abuse treatment.
• Further research is needed on cost-effectiveness and optimal dosage.
• Community-based case management is recommended for healthcare leaders and policymakers.