Case Manager catch up

This week we caught up with Jo Blakeley and Amy Williams to ask why they advanced to Case Managers from their NHS careers?

Jo, why did you become a Case Manager?

As an NHS physiotherapist I became frustrated at the lack of follow up, rehabilitation and life enhancement of clients who had suffered significant injuries and had more potential than the NHS resources could provide.

What did you know about Case Management before becoming a Case Manager?

I had very little knowledge of the role, I spoke with established case managers and people who had worked as case managers before going back into the NHS.

What has been the biggest change from NHS to Case Management?

The level of involvement with a client in this role is far greater, you are able to use your clinical reasoning for the provision of additional rehabilitation, equipment and vocational aspects.

This means that as a clinician I can actually see the progress of a client from beginning to end and also allows me the ability to review modes of intervention, if they are not working we can then look at changing the rehabilitation program in line with clinical, social and emotional need.

Case managers are more holistic in their approach and client centred.

What is something you love about your role as a Case Manager?

Seeing the improvements in my clients, ensuring they are provided with the level of support they require and in essence becoming an intrinsic part of the life goals.

What do you have a particular interest in and why?

Spinal Injuries, multi trauma/orthopaedic injuries brain injuries. I have a background in working as pa physiotherapist in these areas and feel my knowledge assists me in delivering the best for the client. 

Jo Blakeley, Case Manager.

Amy, why did you become a Case Manager?

Throughout my career as an Occupational Therapist I have always been passionate about enabling individuals to regain independence within occupations that are meaningful to them. I enjoy working with individuals with complex needs and providing the support that they need to navigate their rehabilitation journey including problem solving any hurdles along the way. 

What is the biggest difference between Case Management and the NHS?

Working within the NHS comes with its constraints. It can often be frustrating that services cannot always meet need.

Case Management allows me to offer the best service possible to an individual in assist them in achieving their full rehabilitation potential after a traumatic, life changing event.

Amy Williams, Case Manager.