Case management for acquired brain injury: a systematic review of the evidence base

Background: Brain Injury Case management involves coordinating and organizing services and systems around people with acquired brain injuries' and their families. This review aimed to answer the question: What is the current available evidence for the use of case management in supporting survivors of ABI?

Methods: Searches were conducted in seven databases (Medline (all), CINAHL, Embase, PsychInfo, Scopus, Web of Science, and PubMed), using a search strategy based on key terms: 'case management' and 'brain injury.' Quality of studies was assessed by the Mixed Methods Assessment Tool (MMAT), and the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklists. Findings were presented narratively.

Results: A narrative synthesis of 35 included studies highlighted the challenges of measuring and evaluating the impact of case management for brain injury, vital aspects of case management, such as good communication and relationships, supporting the wider family, and case management across the continuum of care.

Conclusions: Case managers play a pivotal role in the support and rehabilitation of people with ABI. The rapid evolution of case management has resulted in some challenges, such as lack of regulatory oversight and governance, and lack of standardization in treatment approaches. Future progression requires collaboration to produce better outcomes for clients and their families.