Case Management

There are Comprehensive Healthcare Case managers staffed in the Kittitas Valley Healthcare (KVH) Emergency Department (ED). They are funded by the 1/10th of 1% Tax. They provide crisis response. This includes support for individuals having behavioral health and/or substance use crises. Case managers are highly trained and compassionate.

Case managers respond to community crises. They use empathy and professionalism. They have a broad understanding of available support systems. Meet the dedicated team members serving Kittitas County:

• Carleigh Sundby, BA – Weekday, Daytime Case Manager
• Ja’Morris Jenkins, MSED – Nighttime Case Manager
• Michael Logan, BA – Weekend, Daytime Case Manager
• Alicia Sanchez, BA, SUDP – Nighttime Case Manager

What We Do

Case manager work includes:

• Evaluating each crisis. This may be related to mental health, substance use, domestic violence, or another urgent concern.
• Providing emotional support and immediate interventions. This may include de-escalating the crisis and making sure the person is safe.
• Connecting individuals to appropriate services. This may include behavioral health, medical care, housing, financial assistance, or legal support.
• Developing a long-term plan. This may include coping strategies and ongoing support services.

Overall Benefits

Case management services lead to measurable benefits for individuals, families, and the community. Some benefits include:

• Direct support for people and their families during and after a crisis.
• Reduced emergency department (ED) stay times. This eases the burden on hospital systems.
• Having dedicated crisis responders at KVH. This increases staff capacity to care for all patients.
• Timely access to community resources. This enhances outcomes for people experiencing a crisis.