A nursing case management model for rural hospitals.

Providing health care to vulnerable rural populations presents many challenges and limitations that urban models may not address. The model of nursing case management presented here focuses on improving quality, reducing costs, and increasing access for people in rural areas through a professional case management role. The manager's role includes individual advocacy, clinical practice, education, research, and system advocacy. Empowerment of nurse case managers influences achievement of goals and job satisfaction and is based on a new view of power. The model is applicable to hospital, home, and community settings.