Editorial

Abstract

THE INTENT OF the ?Models of Care? section is to provide quality articles relating to a range of models of care. It is also a forum for presenting original research findings, debate and discussion in this area. As this issue of Australian Health Review features the theme of meeting needs for ongoing care, there are a plethora of care models claiming to be the panacea to effectively treat clients with chronic illnesses and conditions. Many articles conclude that care models (such as case management, disease management, chronic condition self-management and others) assist clients in receiving the level of care they need, when they need it, and where they want it. Yet there is mixed evidence on the impact of ?models of care?, and searching available peerreviewed literature is not straightforward. For example, some recent studies evaluating case management have found reduction in the risk of institutionalisation1 while others have found that case management makes no difference and costs more for the system.2