Compiling a caseload index for mental health case management.
OBJECTIVE
The purpose of this study was to explore methods of determining an appropriate caseload for mental health case managers.


METHODS
Seven factors that may impinge on case manager performance and impact on caseload were identified, having reference to published literature and service practice in Victoria and Queensland. The advantages and disadvantages of including these factors in a caseload index were evaluated.


RESULTS
Three caseload index methodologies are presented. Each method makes use of different data and has advantages and disadvantages. There is a trade-off between simplicity and ease of application and the comprehensive use of relevant information. Methods vary in their implications for service efficiency and equity in workload distribution.


CONCLUSIONS
Caseload is a key issue in service planning and staff management. Factors that have the potential to contribute to caseload can be readily identified. However, there is likely to be disagreement as to the weight assigned to any factor and the approach taken may depend on the purpose and context of the caseload calculation. A great deal more research is required to provide an empirical basis for algorithms used in caseload calculation.
King
Robert
R
Department of Psychiatry, The University of Queensland, Royal Brisbane Hospital, Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. robertk@psychiatry.uq.edu.au
Meadows
Graham
G
Le Bas
James
J
D000465:Algorithms; D001315:Australia; D019090:Case Management / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006282:Health Personnel / Q000523:psychology / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D006301:Health Services Needs and Demand; D006801:Humans; D008605:Mental Health Services / Q000458:organization & administration* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011361:Professional Competence; D011369:Professional-Patient Relations; D016526:Workload / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*