Which of the following lists the five core steps of the case management process?

• A. Assessment, planning, implementation/coordination, monitoring/evaluation, and transition/discharge
• B. Assessment, diagnosis, treatment, discharge
• C. Screening, triage, care plan, billing
• D. Assessment, prognosis, intervention, evaluation, termination

Answer: (A)

The five-step framework for case management emphasizes moving from a thorough understanding of the client’s needs to ensuring a smooth handoff to ongoing supports. Start with a comprehensive assessment to gather information about strengths, risks, needs, and preferences. Then develop a plan with clear goals, timelines, and required resources in collaboration with the client. Put the plan into action through implementation and coordination by linking services, arranging supports, and working with providers. Monitor progress and evaluate outcomes to see what’s working and what needs adjustment. Finally, plan for transition or discharge, ensuring continuity of care as the formal involvement ends and the client moves to the next level of support or community resources. This sequence captures the essential flow of case management: assess, plan, act with coordination, review progress, and transition. The other options mix in clinical diagnoses or administrative tasks that aren’t part of the standard five-step case management process, or use terms (like prognosis or termination) that don’t align with the ongoing, coordinated nature of case management.