Family-centered intensive case management: A step toward understanding individualized care

The efficacy of 2 NY programs to meet the needs of children with serious emotional disturbances was studied by randomly assigning children ages 5-12, who were referred for out-of-home placement in treatment foster care, to either treatment foster care, family based treatment (FBT), or family centered intensive case management ([FCICM] total N = 42). The FCICM model used teams of case managers & parent advocates to provide in-home services. Flexible service dollars, respite care, & behavior management skills training were available to assist teams in individualizing care. Preliminary outcomes indicate that children in FCICM are doing as well or better than children assigned to FBT in their functioning & symptom reduction. Parents of children in FCICM have made gains, although not at a statistically significant level, in behavior management skills & family strengths that allow them to provide care for their children at home. 1 Table, 12 References. Adapted from the source document.