What does a case manager do?

Case managers act as liaisons to patients and families and healthcare facilities to ensure that the proper care was effectively and properly provided. They organize all plans of care and services from admission to discharge. They make sure medical care is high quality, cost-effective, and meets all the necessary medical needs. They assess and monitor treatment, determine patient eligibility for different treatments, evaluate patient responses to care, and make arrangements for additional services after a patient is discharge from the healthcare facility.

What kind of training does a case manager need?

Case managers must be registered nurses and usually must have at least a bachelor degree in nursing. Most employers prefer to hire case managers that have at least 2 to 4 years of clinical experience. Many case managers also complete a certificate program in nursing case management. Many prospective case managers complete internships while pursuing their education to gain practical experience. All registered nurses must be licensed by passing the National Council Licensure Examination-Registered Nurse (NCLEX-RN).

Many case managers obtain certification from the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC) or the Case Management Society of American (CMSA) to remain competitive in the field. Case managers must keep their skills up to date and stay abreast on the current advancements in the field. They regularly complete continuing education and additional training throughout their careers.

What are the prospects for a career as a case manager?

Employment of all registered nurses is expected to grow much faster than average for all professions, increasing 23% from 2006 to 2016 (1). The growing and aging population and increased focus on ensuring patient needs are met will drive job growth.

Job prospects should be excellent especially for case managers with extensive experience. Many job openings will arise from the need to replace case managers that retire, transfer, or leave the field for other reasons.

How much do case managers make?

As of December 2009, the middle 50% of case managers earn annual salaries between $56,259 and $67,347. The top 10% earn annual salaries of more than $72,609 (2).

A career as a case manager is an excellent choice for individuals with a strong interest in case management. Case managers must have a solid understanding of the concepts, procedures, and practices in the field and the ability to apply them to a variety of situations. Patience, determination, creativity, critical thinking, and good problem solving skills are essential characteristics. Case managers must have excellent leadership and communication skills and ability to interact with many different patients, families, and other professionals.