What is the Role of a Case Manager and Why are they Important?
As a former ballet dancer, my teacher was vital to my success. She provided instructions on how to move one’s arms and legs. In addition, she told us what positions to take, and arranged our recitals. They worked behind the scenes to ensure a successful performance and to ensure that we all met our goals as dancers.
A case manager is akin to a dance instructor for our clients’ accident benefits claims. They work behind the scenes to ensure that a client is in the best position to succeed and meet their rehabilitation goals. Their role is all-encompassing, and involves many tasks, including:
- Coordinating care between different disciplines
- Making referrals to different care practitioners
- Researching potential care and service solutions
- Advocating with the insurer to ensure treatment plans are funded
- Ensuring that treatment plans are completed properly
- Finding alternative sources of funding for products and services
- Removing the administrative burden of dealing with the insurance company from the client and the treatment team
A good case manager can make a significant difference in a client’s recovery, as they are guardians of the rehabilitation process. They provide the client with a one stop source for information about their treatment and the rehabilitation process. They can direct the client to access different resources, contact their legal team or seek financial advice as necessary. Finally, they can empower the client to engage with their family and community after a devastating injury.
Case managers are just like my ballet teachers: committed professionals, who work in the background to allow our clients to take centre stage in their rehabilitation.
About the Authors
Helen has been working in the insurance and legal industries for more than 29 years. She is happy to use her expertise, experience, and education in working with clients who have sustained serious traumatic injuries achieve their goals of rehabilitation for a brighter future.