Case Managers – optimising responses and team approach for the client in a prolonged disorders of consciousness (PDOC)
Tuesday 13 October 2026
One day online course
This one-day online course is suitable for case managers working with patients in a prolonged disorder of consciousness (PDOC). The course recognises the complexity of working with this unique client group and will provide a structured approach and the associated Gill-Thwaites & Elliott Case Managers framework.
The course will provide a clear overview of the different diagnosis and associated responses in the spectrum of PDOC from Vegetative State, MCS and emergence from MCS., Key principles for identifying and addressing the need to optimise the patients’ conditions such as postural and tone management and creating an optimum environment will be explored.
The course will also discuss the rationale and methods for optimising conditions, selecting and providing accurate assessment, goal focussed intervention and working with families. Consideration will be given to using best interest framework and current PDOC guidelines from the Royal College of Physicians (RCP). A GTE Case Managers’ framework will be provided to structure and facilitate the implementation of a bespoke, focused, and cost-effective intervention and management programme. Methods to explore the process of monitoring and recording responses will also be discussed.
The day will also consider the need to engage with the family and wider team to ensure that all intervention and sensory programmes are specific to the patients’ needs and interests and that all observations of behaviours are captured.
What You’ll Learn
- A clear overview of PDOC diagnoses including Vegetative State, Minimally Conscious State (MCS), and emergence from MCS
- The Gill-Thwaites & Elliott Case Managers Framework for effective planning and intervention
- How to optimise patient conditions through postural and tone management, environmental adjustments, and targeted assessments
- Strategies for goal-focused interventions, working with families, and applying best interest frameworks in line with Royal College of Physicians (RCP) guidelines
- Methods to monitor and record behavioural responses, and build cost-effective, tailored care programmes
Course Highlights
- Interactive sessions with expert facilitators and guest case manager speakers
- Group discussions and practical tools for immediate application
- A downloadable resource pack with frameworks and templates for team use
The course is run by Dr Karen Elliott and Helen Gill-Thwaites MBE who developed the SMART assessment and have collaborated with individuals in PDOC for more than 35 years and has been designed in the recognition that working with this client group requires a coordinated and structured team approach to ensure effective intervention. Experienced Case Managers will contribute as guest speakers.
Learning and Teaching Methods
This course is interactive using course facilitator presentations, small and large group work. A resource pack will be provided with a range of tools suitable for a team working with a client in a PDOC.
Lead Facilitators
Dr Karen Elliott and Helen Gill-Thwaites MBE
SMART Developers & Consultants
Cost £180 (Early Bird rate £160 until 31 August 2026)
Register here
For more information, please call 020 8780 4500 ext 5141 or email [email protected]