Case management of needle localized breast biopsy patients

This article describes the development of a pilot project for case management (CM) for patients undergoing needle localization breast biopsy within a large military medical center. A case management plan, timelines, and critical path were developed. Four patients were followed through the entire process of needle localization breast biopsy from preadmission to discharge using the pathway. Variances from the critical path are discussed. Quality, efficiency, and efficacy of care given to this patient population at this facility can be improved through the use of CM.