Case Coordinator vs. Case Manager: What Are the Differences?
Learn about the two careers and review some of the similarities and differences between them.
A career in case management can be both rewarding and challenging. Two common positions in this field are that of a case coordinator and a case manager. Though these roles share some similarities, there are several key differences between them.
In this article, we discuss the differences between a case coordinator and a case manager, and we provide additional information about working in case management.
What is a Case Coordinator?
Case Coordinators work in a variety of settings to support patients and families as they navigate the healthcare system. They assess patient needs, connect them with resources and services, and coordinate care across multiple providers. Case Coordinators ensure that patients and families receive the information and support they need to make informed decisions about their care. They also advocate on behalf of patients and families to ensure that their rights and preferences are respected. Case Coordinators typically have a background in nursing, social work, or a related field.
What is a Case Manager?
Case Managers are responsible for coordinating and overseeing all aspects of patient care. They work with patients, families, doctors and other health care professionals to develop a plan of care that meets the patient’s specific needs. Case Managers also ensure that the plan of care is followed and that the patient receives the necessary services and treatments. In addition, Case Managers work to ensure that the patient’s health care costs are covered by insurance and that the patient has access to all of the resources they need.
Case Coordinator vs. Case Manager
Here are the main differences between a case coordinator and a case manager.
Job Duties
Case coordinators often have a more managerial role than case managers. They may oversee entire programs or departments within an organization, such as a juvenile justice program. Case coordinators may also manage the scheduling of their team and make sure each member has the resources they need to do their jobs effectively.
Case managers typically have more direct client interaction than case coordinators. Case managers spend most of their time with clients, either in one-on-one meetings or accompanying them through treatment or other services. Because of this, case managers usually develop close relationships with their clients.
Job Requirements
Case coordinators and case managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in social work, psychology or another related field. Some employers may prefer candidates with a master’s degree as well. Additionally, many professionals in these fields pursue certification through the National Association of Social Workers (NASW) or the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use social work software and other tools they might need on the job.
Work Environment
Case coordinators and case managers work in different environments. Case coordinators typically work in an office setting, where they may spend their days sitting at a desk or table and typing on a computer. They also travel to visit clients in hospitals, nursing homes or other facilities.
Case managers often work in an office environment as well, but they may also travel to visit clients in the field. For example, if a case manager is working with a client who’s homeless, they may go out into the community to meet them and help them find housing.
Skills
Both case coordinators and case managers use similar skills in their jobs, such as active listening, critical thinking and problem solving. They also both need to be able to effectively communicate with clients, families, service providers and other professionals. However, there are some differences in the specific skills each position uses.
Case coordinators typically work within social service agencies and coordinate services for clients. This can involve making referrals to appropriate programs and services, monitoring client progress and advocating on behalf of clients. Because they often work with clients who have complex needs, they need to be able to assess needs and develop individualized service plans.
Case managers also work with clients who have complex needs, but they typically work within healthcare settings. Their job responsibilities can include coordinating care, providing education and support to clients and families, and connecting clients to community resources. They may also provide direct care, such as administering medication or wound care.
Salary
Case coordinators and case managers both work in the healthcare industry. Case coordinators earn an average salary of $51,673 per year, while case managers earn an average salary of $56,390 per year. Both of these salaries may vary depending on the type of healthcare facility you work in, your level of experience and your location.