Does intensive case management work? Clinical, social and quality of life outcomes from a controlled study

Abstract

Intensive case management for people with the most serious mental illness can co-ordinate care and keep 'at risk' people in contact with services. However, can case management also bring about improved outcomes? Over an 18-month period the outcomes for 47 clients receiving case management, in addition to standard mental health services, were compared to those for a matched control group in a neighbouring area, who only received standard services. Compared to the matched controls the case managed group had superior improvements in social functioning, perceived social support, less risk behaviour and increased involvement with activities and social organisations. Improvements in mental state and subjective quality of life occurred but were non-significant when compared to the control group. Intensive case management, it is argued, was able to bring about these benefits by making best use of the available treatment and rehabilitation services.