Care Coordinator vs. Case Manager: What Are the Differences?

A career in health care can be both rewarding and challenging. If you’re interested in working in this industry, you may be wondering what the difference is between a care coordinator and a case manager. Both positions work with patients, but they have different responsibilities. In this article, we compare and contrast these two health care jobs, and we provide information on education and skills requirements.

What is a Care Coordinator?

Care Coordinators are responsible for making sure that patients receive the care and services that they need. They work with patients, families, doctors and other health care providers to develop a plan of care. This plan includes setting goals and making sure that everyone involved is on the same page. Care Coordinators also track patients’ progress and make changes to the plan as needed. They make sure that patients are getting the services they need in a timely manner and that they understand how to use those services.

What is a Case Manager?

Case Managers work in a variety of settings, such as hospitals, social service agencies or private practices, to coordinate care for their patients. They develop relationships with patients and their families to assess their needs and create a care plan that meets those needs. Case Managers also work with insurance companies to ensure that patients are getting the coverage they need. They may also work with government agencies to ensure that patients are receiving the benefits they are entitled to. Case Managers also provide referrals to other agencies or services that can help meet the needs of their patients.

Care Coordinator vs. Case Manager

Here are the main differences between a care coordinator and a case manager.

Job Duties

A care coordinator’s duties can vary depending on their clients and the services they provide. They may help their clients find medical care, such as physical or occupational therapy, or assist them with transportation to appointments. Case managers often have very specific duties related to the type of client they serve. For example, a case manager working in a prison may help inmates apply for Medicaid so they can continue treatment once released or help patients complete paperwork needed for release. Another example is a case manager working with an adolescent substance abuse program may monitor attendance and ensure all required courses are completed.

Job Requirements

Care coordinators and case managers typically need at least a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology, sociology or another related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree as well. Additionally, care coordinators and case managers must have experience working with the population they plan to serve. For example, someone who wants to work as a care coordinator for elderly patients should have experience working in geriatrics.

Work Environment

Both care coordinators and case managers work in a variety of environments, depending on the needs of their patients. For example, if a patient is living at home, they may need assistance with daily tasks like bathing or cooking. A care coordinator can visit them regularly to ensure that they’re able to complete these tasks safely and effectively. If a patient lives in an assisted living facility, however, they may require more intensive care coordination services, such as help with medication management or physical therapy.

Care coordinators and case managers also often work long hours, especially when caring for patients who have chronic illnesses or are recovering from surgery. They may travel to visit patients in different locations, including hospitals, nursing homes or private residences.

Skills

Both care coordinators and case managers use similar skills in their jobs, such as communication, organization and customer service. However, there are some key differences between the two roles.

Care coordinators typically work with patients and their families to ensure they receive the care and services they need. They also collaborate with other health care providers, such as doctors and nurses, to coordinate care. Because of this, care coordinators need to have strong interpersonal skills to build relationships with patients, families and other providers. They also need to be able to effectively communicate information about a patient’s condition, treatment plan and prognosis.

Case managers, on the other hand, often work with insurance companies, employers and government agencies to ensure patients receive the coverage and benefits they are entitled to. They also may provide guidance to patients and their families about available resources. Because of this, case managers need to have strong research and analytical skills to understand the complex rules and regulations governing insurance, employment and government benefits. They also need to be able to clearly communicate this information to patients and their families.

Salary

Care coordinators and case managers both work in the healthcare industry, but they have different roles. Care coordinators earn an average salary of $49,593 per year, while case managers earn an average salary of $56,390 per year.