Abstract:

Objective To develop a systematic case management model based on the International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF) Vocational Rehabilitation Core Set (VR-CS) and explore its application pathways and efficacy in vocational rehabilitation. The 13 core categories of VR-CS are applied in vocational rehabilitation case management practices, utilizing comprehensive functional assessments to design and implement structured and individualized case management plans. This, in turn, seeks to enhance individuals' vocational independence, social participation and overall quality of life.

Methods This study adopted a combined approach of theoretical research and empirical case analysis. Based on the 13 core categories of VR-CS, a comprehensive vocational assessment was conducted across three dimensions: body function and structure, activities and participation, and environmental factors. The study theoretically analyzed how to develop and implement holistic and individualized vocational rehabilitation plans, along with dynamic monitoring processes. Three types of typical vocational rehabilitation cases were examined, including individuals with major depressive disorder, high-functioning autism and mild cognitive impairment, to illustrate the evidence and effectiveness of VR-CS-based case management.

Results The VR-CS-based case management method, grounded in the ICF bio-psycho-social model, constructed an integrated and individualized case management system. This system combined the assessment and analysis of vocational rehabilitation needs, goal setting and planning, multidisciplinary team intervention, individualized interventions, process monitoring and dynamic adjustments, return-to-work activities, and long-term follow-up services.The case management model developed through VR-CS demonstrated significant and systematic efficacy in promoting vocational independence and social participation. This study provided a detailed analysis of the primary methods and steps involved in designing and implementing case management and elaborates on the practical applications of this model from the three representative cases. At the body function and structure level, case management included the evaluation of energy and drive functions (b130), high-level cognitive training (b164), and the enhancement of exercise tolerance (b455). Case management focused on accurately setting short- and long-term goals around functional limitations and needs. Dynamic monitoring during interventions ensured timely adjustments to intervention measures. This process improved physical endurance and cognitive function, enhanced sustained work capacity in complex vocational environments. At the activities and participation level, the focus was on skill acquisition (d155), stress management and psychological adjustment (d240), and the cultivation of complex interpersonal communication abilities (d720). Individuals engaged in regular professional skills training, role-playing and simulated work scenarios to progressively enhance vocational adaptability and social interaction skills. Through this process, individuals acquired practical skills, gradually boosting self-efficacy and vocational confidence, thereby facilitating the reshaping of their social roles. At the environmental and personal factors level, case management pathways involved active participation from immediate family (e310), positive shifts in societal attitudes (e460), and the effective utilization of health and employment policy resources (e580, e590). By integrating social and community resources comprehensively, the program created a more inclusive and supportive rehabilitation environment. By designing and implementing systematic case management programs, individuals showed significant improvements in psychological well-being, vocational adaptability and social interaction skills. The majority of cases achieved stable employment or continued participation in social activities following the intervention.

Conclusion VR-CS provides a systematic, multidimensional and person-centered case management framework. This framework applies the bio-psycho-social model, analyzing individuals' primary functional impairments and vocational rehabilitation needs from the perspectives of body functions, psychological states and environmental factors. On this basis, a comprehensive, targeted and holistic case management plan is developed and implemented. The VR-CS-based case management approach not only enhances vocational capabilities but also improves overall quality of life and social adaptability.

Key words: vocational rehabilitation, core set, case management