Intensive Case Management (ICM) Project in Eastern Lower Austria: A Description

Abstract

Introduction

Our ICM Project was implemented in 2012, with the primary objective of preventing hospitalizations and unburdening services. Here, we present a description.

Objectives

ICM is a type of multi-professional assertive community treatment (ACT) and case management, although our concept has a stronger focus on social work than ACT and uses less resources. It aims at patient's stabilization at home, better life quality, less inpatient/residential treatments, and more access to crisis intervention.

Methods

Presently we have 118 spots. Target groups are persons with severe psychiatric conditions at high risk for institutionalization or already institutionalized, including heavy users of mental health services. An initial eligibility assessment is required. At least 3 workers are providing a minimum of 2 h face-to-face contact per week per person. Care is offered predominantly at home environment and anchored in: careful distance-closeness ratio, structured and restructuring, autonomy enhancing, respectful, non-judgmental, confidential, regularity and commitment. Each treatment plan is individualized and based on two axes: intensive assistance and day-structure. It comprises comprehensive psychiatric treatment, counselling, assistance in everyday life, support groups, crisis management and interdisciplinary organizational meetings.

Results

The program was evaluated in 2014 using the CANSAS and FLZ scales and its effectiveness was validated. Most significant improvements were found in day-structure, housing, social contacts and performance, nutrition, and psycho-education. Life satisfaction improvement was found mostly in areas of general health, performance, relaxation and autonomy.

Conclusions

Since its implementation ICM has steadily expanded. Further research tools are currently being developed. Results will be presented in future publications.

Disclosure of interest

The authors have not supplied their declaration of competing interest.