Title
How can social workers improve outcomes and costs in disease management?
Publication Date
2003
Document Type
Article
Abstract
Disease management relies on a team approach to chronic diseases for which good treatment regimens are known and national data are available. Limitations of and opportunities for disease management programs are explored and a case is presented that the inclusion of social work can enhance the performance, outcomes, and cost-benefits of disease management teams. Social workers can attend to depression, other mental health issues, resources, family support, and communication, when other team members may be less able to do so. Social workers are particularly well suited to help patients have voice in their treatment, and to participate actively as decision makers in their own care. Preliminary data show that inclusion of social workers in disease management programs enhances patient outcomes and cost benefits.
Original Citation
Claiborne, N., Vandenburgh, H. (2003). How can social workers improve outcomes and costs in disease management? Disease Management and Health Outcomes, 11(7), 407-413. https://doi.org/10.2165/00115677-200311070-00001
Virtual Commons Citation
Claiborne, N. and Vandenburgh, Henry (2003). How can social workers improve outcomes and costs in disease management?. In Sociology Faculty Publications. Paper 8.
Available at: https://vc.bridgew.edu/sociology_fac/8