Collecting Data
Professor Haynes
BSHS 405
August 11, 2015
When a case management worker is collecting data on a client, it is a way to gather information and learn more about the client and eventually use the information to help them receive the services needed. Collecting data for assessment and intake forms is a very important process. It is vital because this is primarily the first contact between the helper and client. The helper will need to confirm the problem, gather information, and set up appointments to ensure the client gets all the help they may need and make sure their case was handled properly.
Primary Contact
The first primary contact the client has with the agency is over the phone. According to (Summers, 2012), “A new referral or inquiry form is to be used with on an applicant when contacting for the first time”. When over the phone talking to an applicant, good communication skills should be used. According to (Summers, 2012), the helper should learn what the problem is and then set up an intake appointment where the applicant will be seen for an interview and evaluation. The most important part to remember is to make the applicant feel at ease.
Completing Forms
Completing forms for the applicant is an important process. There are steps that need to be followed when completing the forms. Each step is vital because it provides information about the client. Completely and properly filling out the forms allow the helping process to begin without delays due to error. The chief complaint section is important because it's the reason the client seeks help. According to (Summers, 2012), "the helper should describe why the person called in. In a few compact sentences were they able to choose the most important points, so that the main problem is understood”. This is an important part of the assessment that should be short and to the point.
Assessing the Client’s Needs
When filling out the...