title: The case manager: an essential link in quality care.
abstract: The role of case manager is often untapped or underutilized. Nursing case management is recognized by accrediting entities as a unique specialty practice and, when consistently applied, is the holistic implementation of the nursing process focused on an individual's needs, coupled with a commitment to the role of advocate and educator. Case managers on multidisciplinary teams help ensure continuity of care and consistency of communication; they are invaluable advocates for patients navigating the complexities of the current health care system.
authors.affiliation: Wellpoint, Inc., North Haven, Connecticut, USA. lynnsmcc@snet.net
authors.forename: Lynn
authors.initials: L
authors.lastname: McCullough
mesh_terms: D019090:Case Management / Q000458:organization & administration*; D003266:Continuity of Patient Care / Q000458:organization & administration; D006694:Holistic Health; D006801:Humans; D024802:Nurse's Role; D009736:Nursing Process; D010344:Patient Advocacy; D010348:Patient Care Team / Q000458:organization & administration; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D011785:Quality Assurance, Health Care / Q000458:organization & administration*; D013041:Specialties, Nursing / Q000458:organization & administration*