Comprehensive Case Management for Substance Abuse Treatment

This TIP, Comprehensive Case Management for Substance Abuse Treatment, presents an overview of case management for substance abuse treatment providers. Though they may not refer to it by name, many providers have been using case management for years. What studies support is also proven every day in the field - substance abusers have better treatment outcomes if their other problems are addressed concurrently. As case management becomes the subject of evaluation studies and is increasingly listed as a reimbursable service under managed care, however, more information and a more explicit framework are called for. Chapters 1 and 2 compare the leading models of case management and describe its various functions as practiced within the substance abuse treatment continuum. Chapter 3 provides guidance on establishing linkages with other service agencies, or intra-agency case management. Evaluation of programs, a crucial piece in getting case management funded under managed care, is explicated in Chapter 4. Chapter 5 explains how to use case management to serve an array of special needs substance abuse clients, including those with HIV/AIDS, mentally ill clients, and incarcerated clients. Practical information for adapting a treatment program to a managed care environment is given in Chapter 6. Appendix B is a comprehensive list of knowledge, skills, and attitudes that substance abuse counselors need to perform the case management activities of referral and service coordination. Appendix C is a readiness checklist for providers preparing for managed care.