Here's how you can enhance collaboration with clients and their families as a Case Manager.

True collaboration begins with actively listening to clients and their families to understand their issues and concerns fully. Creating an environment of openness and non-judgment helps them feel comfortable asking questions. I always encourage questions and emphasize the various ways they can reach me, whether by phone, email, or other means. Communicating in plain language, without medical jargon, ensures clarity. Showing empathy and compassion is essential, as this is often a challenging time for them. Your support and insight can significantly impact their well-being and that of their families.

Trust is vital in dentistry, especially in managing cases To earn your patients trust, show empathy, maintain confidentiality and always follow through on commitments Listen actively to their concerns and demonstrate respect for their perspectives When patients feel valued and understood they are more likely to actively engage in their treatment and work with you to achieve their dental health objectives

One thing I found helpful is building strong relationships. This can be accomplished by being consistent, reliable and transparent. Do not make commitments that are impossible to follow through. Make sure that confidentiality is maintained throughout all communications and interactions.

In order to be in the right place and in the right minds set. When working with clients, you need to avoid " Monkey Brain." Be clear of all you're daily concerns and issues. Be focused and have a clear mind. Don't worry about tomorrows problems, or the bills. Provide unconditional positive regard to the client and stay focused.

As a case manager it is important to let patients know that you are a nurse advocating for them. Your goal as a case manager is to make sure they are the best version of their physical health and mental health possible. Actively listen to what is going on with the patient and help find them needed health care, resources, education. Have mindful follow ups consistently, after an appointment or testing. Let patients know you can collaborate with their providers or other members of their care team to help alleviate additional stress. Your priority as a case manager this to help the patient and their family overcome any barriers and to advocate for their needs.

One thing I've found helpful is honesty and allowing the client and the family to communicate individually and collectively so there is no room for misunderstandings.

Maintaining open communication is key. Make sure your patients and their families feel comfortable reaching out to you with any questions or worries. Clearly outline how they can contact you, whether by phone or in-person visits Keep them updated on their treatment progress and encourage them to share their thoughts This approach fosters a relationship where everyone's concerns are addressed

Open lines of communication are vital for continuing to build trust and collaborations. Let patients know the best way to get ahold of you, leave a clear voicemail message the patient will hear if you are unable to answer with your working hours and return call time frame. If you are out of the office set an alert on your voicemail and your email along with the best person to reach until you return. Be sure to listen to your patients so they feel comfortable asking questions. Check in with your patients regularly and provide updates you may have. Ask what days and times work best with their availability so you can connect for those updates.

Absolutely, maintaining open lines of communication is key in healthcare. It’s important to meet patients where they are comfortable, and in today’s digital age, preferences can vary widely. Incorporating HIPAA-certified text messaging alongside traditional methods like phone calls and emails can significantly enhance patient comfort and engagement. Not everyone may feel comfortable picking up the phone, so offering a variety of communication methods ensures that all patients feel they can easily and securely reach out. By adapting to their preferred communication channels, we not only respect their preferences but also reinforce their trust in us, fostering a stronger, more effective collaboration.

Work with your patients and their families to establish realistic and meaningful objectives that align with their values and aspirations This involvement ensures their commitment to the treatment plan Regularly review these goals together making changes as necessary to strengthen the collaborative bond in your relationship

Set SMMARTR goals, starting with small goals and working towards their end goal. Engage and provide education and resources to help the patient with accountability, check in with each interaction on how progress is being made for the goal. Reinforce that if there are set backs it is okay and make changes to behaviors to move forward. Celebrate successes. While we have goals for the patient, the patient should drive their goals to ensure it will be obtained. Some of my favorite goals: A patient had back pain and the goal they set was to be able to get down on the floor to play with their infant grandchild. Post op patient wanted to be able to walk around the block to sit in the park during Spring as part of PT once cleared to do so.

Collaborative goal setting is key to increasing patient engagement by involving them in shaping their own care plans. This approach ensures the goals are meaningful and tailored to their unique values and aspirations, steering clear of the paternalistic tendencies often found in healthcare. By actively participating in setting their objectives, clients are more motivated and invested in the outcomes. Regularly reviewing and adjusting these goals also keeps the process dynamic and responsive, reinforcing a partnership built on mutual respect and shared decision-making.

The best way to collaborate with clients and their families as a case manager is to gain an understanding of what they know about their health condition, treatment options and how to work with healthcare systems. Many patients and their caregivers feel like they do not have enough information, the system is difficult to navigate, and doctors are rushed so they lack information to make decisions. It's also extremely important to discuss social determinants of health issues for why they may not follow through with recommendations. Is money for co-pays, treatments, or medications a problem, are their other issues like transportation, food or housing issues? What negative interactions have they had before that make them hesitate to participate?

It is so important to help break down the complicated process with in the health care system. I have found this helps with families understanding and builds trust

Education should be provided with every interaction. Provide education to anyone who wants to learn, the patient, family, neighbors, friends, whomever will be there assisting patients. Take time to learn how the patient best learns, by listening, reading, watching videos. Find reliable resources to discuss over the phone, in person and follow up with an email and links to education. Make sure education is provided in a language member can easily understand. Find education materials in their native language. Have a conversation with the patient and their support versus talking at them. Actively listen and modify education as needed to ensure patient will succeed.

Providing clients and their families with clear and accessible information from reputable sources like MedlinePlus.gov ensures they receive up-to-date, unbiased information. This empowers them to make informed decisions about their care. By utilizing easy-to-understand language and patiently addressing their questions, we help build their confidence in navigating their treatment options and the healthcare system. Such an approach not only informs but also involves them more deeply in their own health.

One thing I’ve found helpful is actually listening for understanding. You cannot help clients unless you are truly listening to what is being said and what is not.

Fostering strong support networks is a way to combat social isolation, a significant issue in today's society. By connecting clients with community resources, support groups, and families facing similar challenges, case managers can provide a vital lifeline that offers emotional support, practical advice, and a sense of belonging. These networks are not just about sharing experiences but also about empowering clients to support and learn from one another, enhancing their resilience and well-being. As case managers, our role in facilitating these connections is more than logistical; it's about nurturing a collaborative environment that helps clients thrive within their communities.

Case managers have a unique ability to show understanding and support to their patients. They also have a robust knowledge of what support systems are out there. Whether it’s outpatient services, support groups, physician visits, medication education, etc. case managers provide what their patients need, helping them feel seen, heard and valued.

Case Managers have access to many resources and knowledge of reliable support groups, programs and resources. Let the patient know they are not alone and these groups can help people. Do not push these resources, but let the patient know they are there if and when they are ready. Continue to be a resource and safe space for patients, if they are continuing to engage with you they trust you. Collaborate with extended care teams and continue to provide education and support.

This article explains the importance of trust in understanding and communicating in order to resolve issues. Additional resources assist in seeing other perspectives and suggesting additional resources.