How can you use the brokerage model for case management?

1 What is the brokerage model?

The brokerage model is based on the idea that case managers act as brokers or intermediaries between clients and service providers. They assess the needs and preferences of their clients, identify and locate the most suitable resources, negotiate and advocate for them, and monitor their progress and satisfaction. The case manager does not provide direct services or interventions, but rather connects clients to existing ones. The brokerage model is often used in situations where there are many available resources, but clients face barriers to access them, such as lack of information, awareness, eligibility, or transportation.

2 What are the benefits of the brokerage model?

The brokerage model has several benefits for both clients and case managers. For clients, it can increase their choice and empowerment, as they can participate in selecting and evaluating the services they receive. It can also reduce their frustration and confusion, as they have a single point of contact who can guide them through the complex service system. For case managers, it can enhance their efficiency and effectiveness, as they can leverage their knowledge and network of resources, and avoid duplication or overlap of services. It can also reduce their workload and stress, as they do not have to perform multiple roles or tasks that are beyond their scope or expertise.

3 What are the drawbacks of the brokerage model?

The brokerage model also has some drawbacks that need to be considered and addressed. For clients, it can create dependency and passivity, as they may rely too much on the case manager and lose their sense of self-reliance or initiative. It can also limit their continuity and quality of care, as they may experience frequent changes or gaps in service delivery, or encounter providers who are not responsive or competent. For case managers, it can pose ethical and professional dilemmas, as they may face conflicts of interest or loyalty, or have to balance competing demands or expectations from clients, providers, and funders. It can also challenge their skills and competencies, as they may need to deal with diverse and complex cases, or cope with limited or inadequate resources.

4 How to overcome the challenges of the brokerage model?

In order to overcome the challenges of the brokerage model, case managers need to adopt strategies and practices that can improve their performance and outcomes. This includes setting clear and realistic goals and expectations with clients and providers, building rapport and trust, collaborating with other case managers, advocating and educating clients and providers about their rights, and evaluating and documenting the process of the brokerage model. Regular communication is essential for successful implementation of these strategies. Additionally, feedback should be sought to ensure continuous improvement.

5 How to learn more about the brokerage model?

If you want to learn more about the brokerage model, you can consult the National Association of Case Management (NACM) website for standards, guidelines, and resources. Additionally, the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) website provides education, certification, and networking opportunities for case managers. Furthermore, the Journal of Case Management publishes research and practice articles on case management topics. Finally, the Case Management Model Act defines and regulates the scope and functions of case management.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?