Driving the system: long-term-care coordination in Manitoba, Canada

In Manitoba, Canada, long-term-care coordination--the processes of assessment and care coordination-effectively drives the long-term care system. This article describes the long-term care system in Manitoba and the governing philosophy, underlying values, and policy milestones through which it was created. Then it turns to an outline of the client needs assessment and care coordination functions of the Manitoba Continuing Care program, including the components of the program and the key role of the care coordinator. Illustrative client case studies are presented. The article concludes by distinguishing case management from care coordination as it is practiced in Manitoba.