The VCM’s referral feature allows each agency to have access to a comprehensive directory of providers in your community and throughout the network. With this simple-to-use resource, staff and even volunteers can quickly search for agencies who can meet the needs communicated by the client. It’s as simple as typing in a description of needs like: food, clothing, shelter, transportation, counseling, or by using the taxonomy built into the system for related needs.
The VCM looks at all available resources from each provider in the system and returns a simple list based on the needs specified. The matching list of support providers is returned in the order of proximity from the clients address or from your agencies address, listing the closest provider to the Client who can meet their needs. Active agencies utilizing the VCM for their internal case and work management receive wait times and availability of resources. This information allows staff to choose the agencies that can help meet their clients’ needs today.
Streamlined Access to Services
VCM’s referral feature connects clients to additional services they may need from other agencies. These services can include counseling, healthcare, or housing support, depending on their profile and needs assessment. Referrals help clients quickly access a broader network of support without the need to independently seek out and apply for each service, reducing delays and improving outcomes.
Referrals Enhance Coordination Between Agencies
With a referral feature, agencies can easily share client information and referrals, enhancing coordination and collaboration. This keeps all involved parties up-to-date with the client’s progress. Sharing information enables agencies to better understand the client’s needs, leading to more tailored and effective support services. It also helps in avoiding duplication of services and ensures that the client receives a cohesive assistance plan.
Improved Tracking and Outcomes
A referral feature allows for better tracking of clients and their outcomes between agencies. Inter-agency tracking gives clients and agencies valuable feedback on the effectiveness of the services provided. This knowledge empowers agencies to adjust services and strategies to better meet the needs of clients, ultimately leading to improved overall effectiveness of the support provided.
Efficient and Informative Referrals Process in Social Services
When a referral is made, the details about the client and their needs are automatically sent to the referred agency. The Client also receives a print out of the details they need to receive support. The referral slip includes directions, contact information, hours of operation, services provided by the agency, restrictions of services, fees, as well as any documentation provided by the agency under their profile. Additional documentation can include critical details to assist the client prior to their visit. Details like qualifications for service, criteria for enrollment, or even intake documentation can be filled out before a visit. This eliminates wasted time in waiting rooms or redundant visits when clients are unaware of the items they need to bring with them.
Flexible and Collaborative Referral Management in the Virtual Case Manager
As with all records within the Virtual Case Manager, agencies can create a referral and keep it private from all other agencies. Agencies can also send the referral anonymously or establish a shared record between two or more providers who can assist with the client’s needs. Agencies receiving referrals can reset the visibility of the referral. They can make all details private if needed when they take on the case needs for the client.
With this simple-to-use resource, the Virtual Case Manager is building a community of providers who can extend their ability to serve and support far beyond their agency’s walls.
