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Process coordination without a medical role

A non-clinical case manager keeps the case moving

One point of contact safeguards agreements, collaboration and progress. Medical assessment remains with the authorized medical professional.

Explanation

What does a non-clinical case manager do?

A non-clinical case manager coordinates the non-medical side of absence and return to work. They ensure the employee, manager, HR and occupational physician understand the next step and who owns it.

The role does not collect diagnoses or replace an occupational physician. It works with functional capabilities, workplace context, process agreements and practical barriers, enabling a human approach while respecting privacy and role boundaries.

In practice

01

Coordination

Safeguards the case line, deadlines, decision points and handovers between involved roles.

02

Dialogue

Supports clear conversations about contact, capabilities and expectations without medical interpretation.

03

Execution

Turns agreements into actions on adapted work, gradual return, review and sustainable follow-up.

Method

When does the role add value?

The role is particularly valuable when a case includes several stakeholders, parallel routes or recurring barriers. In preventive follow-up, one coordinator can also stop small signals from becoming visible too late.

Good case management is transparent. The employee understands what is recorded, the employer knows what to organize and the occupational physician retains medical autonomy.

  • One recognizable contact for process questions
  • Less delay caused by unclear ownership
  • A clear boundary between medical and organizational information
  • Consistent follow-up across teams, sites and cases
Read more about the regulatory context on RTW 3.0 and our broader method on the approach page.

Human coordination, supported by technology

Technology can make agreements, signals and progress visible. The case manager remains responsible for context, dialogue and proportionate choices.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

Is a non-clinical case manager a doctor?

No. The role coordinates the process and does not provide medical assessment or diagnosis.

What information does the case manager need?

Mainly process information and functional capabilities relevant to work. Medical details are only processed when there is a clear legal basis and authorization.

Can an internal HR team perform this role?

Yes, if responsibilities, skills, privacy boundaries and available time are clear. External support may help with capacity, neutrality or complex cases.

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Last content review: 24 September 2026