Implementing a depression-specific case-management on the level of a health insurance company – effects on costs of care and work satisfaction

Background/Objectives: A common disease, depression poses a significant burden both to the individual and to society. Therefore, interventions on all levels of the health care system are necessary. This study presents a novel approach which targets case managers of a health insurance company. This target group gives information on treatment opportunities to insurants and checks applications for sickness benefits and early retirement. However, they usually lack specific knowledge on mental disorders and professional skills in counselling people with mental illness. Methods: Seven case managers received a comprehe…