Evaluation of intensive case management for seriously and persistently mentally ill persons.

Case management and continuity of care have been an integral part of the community mental health movement since its inception in the United States in 1963. The application of these concepts in treating the seriously and persistently mentally ill has, however, undergone continuous change. The most recent application is called intensive case management. In this article, preliminary findings from a 3-year evaluation of intensive case management programs in two Pennsylvania community mental health agencies are discussed. Results show only limited improvement in client level of functioning, but substantial desired change occurred in treatment utilization patterns and reduced cost of care.