Case Manager Interview Questions

What is the most important role of a case manager?

The interviewer is looking to see if you have a clear understanding of your role and what it entails. Be sure to define the role in your terms, then describe how you would carry out your duties at the job. You should also include details about what you do as a case manager and how you would use your personal qualities to do the job effectively.

Example answer: "The most important role of a case manager is to oversee medical care. Every client's care plan will be customized to their needs and goals and I will administer them accordingly. I will also make sure that my clients have access to a variety of services that fit their situation. I will visit with them regularly to ensure they are happy and any issues are resolved."

How do you collaborate with hospital staff?

Case Managers play a crucial role in ensuring a smooth transition from hospital to home for patients who are discharged. Case Managers work closely with a medical team to develop a plan to aid patients in a smooth transition. A good answer should include examples of how you collaborate with staff in your role.

Example answer: "My typical day is filled with collaborations. I coordinate with the social worker, the nurse, the discharge planner and many other staff within the hospital to ensure effective care. I collaborate with case managers and discharge planners to create a plan to ease the transition. I meet with patients to hear more about their situation. Then together, we develop a course of action that relieves stress for the patient and all parties. Our plan often involves arranging transport, helping with home visits, or making referrals to charity groups if appropriate."

In what ways do you think your personality and character make you a good fit for a Case Manager position?

Case Manager roles are important because they relate closely to the healthcare sector, so any answer that highlights a positive understanding of a Case Manager's duties is a good one. Hiring managers want to know whether you have an understanding of the job and how your personality makes you a good fit for it.

Example answer: "I have always cared deeply about the well-being of others and often put my needs second to theirs. These are traits that make me a good Case Manager because I can empathize with the needs of my patient and put their needs first. My experience in customer service also helps me know how to deal with difficult people in a way that doesn't put them off."

Describe a time when you advocated for a patient.

Case managers are advocates for patients. This includes taking on-board complaints or suggesting changes to the way care is administered. You should be honest and cite a specific example where you advocated for a patient. Your answer should outline who you were advocating for, the reason for the advocacy, and the results.

Example answer: "I was working with a patient who was recovering from an accident. He was having trouble sleeping and dealing with the pain from his injuries. His family doctor had prescribed medication for him. However, the patient was also taking other medication, which led to an adverse reaction. Unfortunately, he wasn't aware of the new adverse reaction. I informed him of the reaction, so he could discuss this with his doctor. As a result, he was able to discuss his medication with his doctor, who then adjusted the new drug. This adjustment not only resolved his sleeping and pain issues, but it also eliminated the adverse reaction."

What do you do when a client has a problem with another member of the care team?

There may be instances when clients have a problem with you or one of your colleagues. Answering this question well requires tact and diplomacy, because in some instances the best solution is to offer an apology. Being able to diffuse a conflict in a professional manner is a valuable skill for care workers.

Example answer: "I first make sure the client is comfortable in sharing the nature of the problem. I then determine if the client is open to talking it out with the team member. If not, then I listen and offer my suggestions based on my experience. This might be a situation where the client simply needs more personal time with me or needs a different nurse to provide their care."