Case managers come from various professional disciplines, including nursing, social work, rehabilitation, and other healthcare fields. Each discipline has professional organizations that support its members through education, networking, advocacy, and leadership development.
As case managers, we also have professional organizations dedicated specifically to advancing the practice of case management. But there is a difference between simply belonging to an organization and becoming an active, engaged member.
I learned that difference early in my career, and it changed my professional life.
As a nurse, I have belonged to the American Nurses Association (ANA), the Association of Rehabilitation Nurses (ARN), and the Case Management Society of America (CMSA). Each organization offers unique benefits, and I have benefited from each at different stages of my career.
However, the organization in which I have invested the most time and energy is the Case Management Society of America.
My Journey into Professional Involvement
My involvement began in 1988, when I started working in case management. I joined my regional chapter, the All Florida Case Management Network, and volunteered to serve on a committee responsible for bringing speakers to our monthly meetings.
It was a wonderful way to meet healthcare leaders, learn about emerging issues, and contribute to the organization.
Over time, I became a board member, then President-Elect, and eventually President of my regional chapter.
Each role brought new responsibilities and opportunities to learn. Our goals were to grow membership and meet the educational and networking needs of case managers throughout Florida. We accomplished this by holding monthly meetings in different parts of the state and organizing an annual conference that brought members together to learn, share ideas, and build relationships.
These experiences taught me about teamwork, communication, strategic planning, and leadership. More importantly, they helped me develop confidence in my abilities.
Taking the Next Step
As my confidence grew, I became involved with CMSA at the national level. This was a big step for me, but one that opened doors I never imagined.
I had opportunities to meet thought leaders from across the healthcare continuum and participate in discussions where decisions were being made that would impact patients, families, healthcare professionals, and the future of case management and healthcare.
I learned that healthcare is not only about providing quality care; it is also a business that must operate efficiently and effectively. I came to understand how important case managers are to the success of healthcare organizations and why early case management involvement can make such a difference in outcomes.
I also learned how to educate others, advocate for our profession, mentor colleagues, and become a stronger leader.
As my involvement continued, I was honored to be elected National President of CMSA. Years later, in recognition of my contributions to the profession and the organization, I received CMSA’s Lifetime Achievement Award. Receiving this recognition from my professional colleagues was one of the highest honors of my life.
Perhaps the most important lesson I learned through these experiences was that we all have something to contribute, regardless of where we are in our careers.
Why Being Active Matters
Professional organizations provide opportunities that extend far beyond attending an annual conference or earning continuing education credits.
They give us a collective voice to advocate for our profession, influence public policy, establish professional standards, and help shape the future of healthcare.
They also provide opportunities to build relationships with colleagues who understand our challenges, share our commitment to patients and families, and inspire us to keep learning and growing.
You don’t have to become a board member or president to make a difference. You can start by attending a meeting, joining a committee, volunteering for a project, mentoring a new member, or sharing your expertise. Every contribution matters.
My Challenge to You During Case Management Week
Looking back over my career, becoming an active member of my professional organization was one of the best decisions I ever made. The experiences, friendships, knowledge, and leadership opportunities have enriched my life both professionally and personally.
During Case Management Week, I encourage you to think about your own professional involvement.
Are you a member of a professional organization? If so, are you taking advantage of the opportunities it offers? If you are not a member, what is holding you back?
Don’t just join an organization. Get involved. Find your voice. Share your knowledge. Help shape the future of case management.
You never know where that first volunteer opportunity might lead you. I certainly didn’t when I volunteered for my first committee back in 1988!
Happy Case Management Week!
