Rural Case Management

Abstract

The authors describe a study of rural case managers' role perceptions. Although various studies have investigated the role of the case manager, no study has examined the role in a rural environment. Survey data and focus groups are used to determine information about the role. Nurses identified differences and problems associated with the case management role in the rural environment. Respondents in the study also identified changes in role expectations, essential clinical skills for rural case managers, and ways in which case management affects healthcare outcomes for rural clients. Essential elements of content for educational preparation of these case managers are also investigated.