What is the purpose of case management in nursing?

The purpose of case management in nursing is to coordinate patient care for optimal health outcomes. Case management involves assessing individual patient needs, identifying resources to meet those needs, and organizing the care that patients receive across the healthcare continuum. This process ensures that patients receive comprehensive and coordinated care tailored to their specific medical conditions and personal preferences, ultimately leading to improved health outcomes.

Through effective case management, nurses play an integral role in navigating complex healthcare systems, advocating for patients, and collaborating with other healthcare professionals to ensure that all aspects of a patient’s care are seamlessly managed. This comprehensive approach not only supports the patient's physical health but also considers emotional, social, and environmental factors that can impact recovery and wellness.

While enhancing social interactions, providing leisure activities, and facilitating insurance claims may be aspects of patient care or healthcare support, they do not encapsulate the main function of case management. The focus is primarily on coordination and optimization of care to achieve the best possible health outcomes for patients.