Social workers' experiences of integrated case management for low-income individuals with mental illness in South Korea. (January 2019)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sohn, Sunju; Jang, Soo Mi
• Is Part Of: International social work. Volume 62:Number 1(2019:Jan.)
• Page Start: 119
• Page End: 132
• Publication Date: 2019-01
• Subjects: Barriers -- integrated case management -- Korea -- low income -- mental illness; Social service -- Periodicals; Social problems -- Periodicals; Globalization -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; Community development -- Periodicals; 361
• DOI: 10.1177/0020872817712563
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0020-8728

Abstract

Using a mixed methodology, the current level of integrated case management in South Korea was examined by exploring barriers to successful cooperation among agencies and quantifying networking activities in assisting low-income individuals with mental illness. Findings indicate the following: (1) struggling with limited resources while unrealistic expectations are imposed on mental health professionals, (2) poor collaboration and (3) the need for a functional organisation that plays a centralised role for a stronger and efficient integrated case management system. The results suggest the need to adopt a workable paradigm founded on a unified system within communities and a 'sharing' atmosphere.