What does "functional assessment" evaluate in case management?

The concept of "functional assessment" in case management primarily focuses on evaluating an individual's ability to perform daily activities and self-care. This assessment is crucial as it helps identify the patient’s functional capabilities and limitations in their daily life, which is essential for planning appropriate interventions and support.

Understanding how well a patient can manage their basic and instrumental activities of daily living—such as bathing, dressing, eating, and household management—provides a comprehensive overview of their needs. This information is vital for case managers to develop personalized care plans that enhance the patient’s independence and quality of life, as well as to identify the potential need for assistance, rehabilitation, or other services.

While aspects like economic status, compliance willingness, and healthcare visit frequency can contribute to a comprehensive patient assessment, they do not specifically align with the primary focus of functional assessments, which is centered on the individual’s practical ability to handle daily living tasks. Therefore, the correct focus of a functional assessment is clearly on the abilities related to daily activities and self-care, supporting effective case management practices.