Medical Management
A Case Manager is responsible for all aspects of service delivery to physically and/or mentally impaired clients. Case managers communicate with the injured employee, and the medical team to assess, plan, implement, coordinate, monitor and evaluate medical management needs and services. The goal of medical case management is to assist the injured worker in attaining an MMI, (as complete a recovery as possible) and returning to work.
It is important that the Medical Case Manager is familiar with Medicare Set-Aside issues!
Medical Appointments are often attended by the medical case manager with the patient and immediate feedback is received regarding the status of the medical condition. The medical recommendations are obtained and reviewed with the employer/carrier to prompt handling. The medical status and office notes are faxed to the employer/carrier immediately.
The Medical Recommendations and status are reviewed with the injured worker, to assure his understanding of complying with medical advice.
The medical case manager will obtain the date of maximum medical improvement, obtain the PPI rating and determine if the client has any permanent work restrictions. The case manager will maintain contact with all members of the team to assure that the patient, physician, and employer/carrier are well informed of the case status.
Vocational Assessments
- Assessment/Evaluation
- Vocational Testing
- Vocational Goal Development
- Alternative Placement
- Transferable skills Analysis
- Job Analysis
- Labor Market Surveys
- On the Job Training Development
Services are provided by Certified Rehabilitation Counselors or Certified Vocational Evaluators
Explanation of Services
A Vocational Evaluation includes a complete file review, initial interview, and the development of a rehabilitation plan. The Rehabilitation Consultant will identify the client's medical stability, job readiness, and establish appropriate vocational goals.
Vocational Testing involves a battery of paper and pencil tests to include aptitude, academic achievement intellectual and interest. The testing results assist in the development of vocational goals and a rehabilitation plan.
Transferable Skills Analysis, help to identify job goals from the "Dictionary of Occupational Titles." This analysis considers prior work experience, acquired aptitudes and physical capabilities. The purpose is to identify job goals related to the client's work history and work-related skills.
Job Developement and Labor Market Research consists of determining the existence of available jobs relative to an established job goal within a specific geographical area. Contact is made with prospective employers through telephone contact and/or personal visits.
Job Analysis is an onsite evaluation of specific occupations regarding the essential functions of the job related tasks. Evaluation is made of the tasks performed, educational requirements, physical demands and environmental working conditions. The written analysis and/or videotaped analysis can be reviewed with the treating physician for medical approval.
Labor Market Researchs conducted by CRC and CVE level professionals. Job openings are identified in the claimant's labor market, consistent with their skill level and physical abilities.
Wage Earning Capacity Assessments
Due to our knowledge, experience and understanding of the labor market, Spruance & Associates, Inc. can also assess and testify as to an individual's wage earning capacity in family law cases. The evaluation consists of client interview/evaluation, testing if necessary, labor market research and/or gathering of statistical data to support our findings.
Life Care Plans
Life Care Planning typically involves an evaluation of the individual in their home environment, thorough review of an individual's medical records, interview with the individual's family members if necessary, and recommendations or approval from the primary treating physicians to summarize the individual's future medical needs, as a result of the onset of disability.
Future Medical needs may include: routine treatment, aggressive future needs, medications, supplies, orthopedic equipment, therapeutic treatment, orthotics, prosthetics, home care, transportation, home modifications, and such related medical needs to increase and promote satisfaction of activities of daily living.