In the nurse coaching context, how do case management and care coordination differ?

• A. Case management focuses on navigation and resource linkage; care coordination aligns services and communication across providers to achieve goals.
• B. Case management and care coordination are the same concepts.
• C. Case management handles billing; care coordination handles scheduling.
• D. Case management focuses on direct patient education; care coordination focuses on medication reconciliation.

Answer: (A)

Case management is about helping the patient access what they need and navigate the system. The nurse coach assesses barriers, connects the patient with resources (like transportation, financial help, or community services), and follows up to make sure those needs are met. It’s focused on linkages and removing obstacles to care.

Care coordination, on the other hand, is about making sure all parts of the care team work together smoothly. It involves aligning services and communicating across providers, sharing information, and coordinating referrals, transitions, and the overall plan so that care delivered by different clinicians fits toward the patient’s goals.

For example, case management might secure a patient’s access to home health services and medications, while care coordination would ensure the primary care provider, specialists, and pharmacist stay on the same page, with timely notes, test results, and follow-up appointments so the treatment plan is coherent.