An integrated case management model: developing standards, evaluation, and outcome criteria

Case management has become an important strategy in responding to the complex physical and social needs of persons with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disease. Yet, inconsistent implementation and professional turf guarding, based on disciplinary differences, have rendered traditional models ineffective. AID Atlanta has adopted an integrated, multisite approach to case management that uses the expertise of social workers, nurses, pastoral counselors, and therapists to develop client-centered plans of care across the continuum of need. This article presents the integrated model and describes the standards of service and outcome evaluation criteria that underpin this model. The impact of nursing expertise on the development of the model is discussed.