Strengths model case management fidelity scores and client outcomes

Abstract

Objective: The study examined the relationship between fidelity of strengths model case management (SMCM) and client outcomes of psychiatric hospitalization, competitive employment, postsecondary education, and independent living. Methods: Data were collected over an 18-month period during regularly scheduled fidelity reviews for 14 case management teams representing ten agencies serving an average of 953 clients diagnosed as having a serious mental illness. Time-varying covariate linear growth modeling examined the relationship between fidelity scores and client outcomes. Results: A statistically significant association was found between fidelity scores and psychiatric hospitalization, competitive employment, and postsecondary education. Conclusions: The study results offer promising evidence that higher SMCM fidelity has a positive effect on clients over an 18-month period, thereby providing an effective complement to current mental health treatment.