What does a Case Manager do?
Case managers work to facilitate patient care by assessing patient needs, evaluating treatment options, creating treatment plans, coordinating care, and gauging progress. Oftentimes case managers work with physicians, social workers, families, and human services providers. The overall goal for case managers is to improve clinical outcomes, increase patient satisfaction, and promote cost-effectiveness.
Case managers usually have a Bachelor's degree in nursing and are a registered nurse in the state of practice. In addition, many case managers have their Case Manager Certification, which is obtained by meeting a set of eligibility requirements and passing an exam. In order to be eligible to take the CMC exam, you must have some form of licensure (ie: RN, LCSW, LMSW, LPC, CRC, or CDMS) and have case management experience. The most effective case managers are strong delegators, comfortable working independently, and have refined problem-solving skills.
- Coordinate and facilitate patient care through assessment, evaluation, planning, and implementation
- Communicate patient needs to a variety of care team members and follow up accordingly
- Manage discharge plans upon completion of treatment
- Work collaboratively with patients, families, physicians, and nurses to ensure high quality care
- Act as the patient's advocate as it relates to insurance coverage and financial assistance
- Maintain the patient's comprehensive clinical record through detailed documentation
- Coordinate with third party payors on a regular basis
- Bachelor's degree in Nursing
- Registered Nurse in state of practice
- Certified Case Manager, preferred
- 3-5 years of clinical experience, preferably in case management, or related experience
- Ability to walk and stand 50-80% of the time
- Proficient computer skills including experience with Microsoft Excel
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- Excellent clinical assessment and analytical skills
How much does a Case Manager make near United States?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$57,514
/ yrCase Manager Career Path
Learn how to become a Case Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Case Manager Insights
Colorado Health Network“I really liked that my schedule could be flexible and I had good work/life balance.”
GoalPoint Behavior Group“I have watched GoalPoint grow throughout my time and it’s great to see RBTs are able to work full”
Child Protective Services“Luckily I had a supervisor who was helpful but not all supervisors work the same.”
Venice Family Clinic“The work that you do is meaningful and you enjoy the people you work with.”
McDonald Law Firm“I was not happy that my case load had increased 80% and a pay raise was not discussed.”
D. Miller & Associates“My department head was very sweet and I enjoyed her directness and to the point discussions.”
Little City Foundation“I enjoy working with my team and most of the foster care team is enjoyable to work with.”
Friendship Place“High caseloads in this line of work and there is no shortage of people who need your help.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of case managers
The typical day of a case manager involves managing treatment and care plans for their patients. They are an advocate for patients, managing schedules with healthcare providers, and coordinating all aspects of a patient's treatment. Case managers may also assist patients with understanding insurance and payment options.
Yes, case managers usually enjoy desired working conditions, typically with a traditional work schedule of 9-5. Many case managers also receive good benefits, and evenings and weekends off. The best part about being a case manager is that they're often in high demand as an aging population requires more access to healthcare and funding.
The average pay for a case manager is $57,514 per year in the United States. How much case managers make depends on their experience level and credentials. Case managers with more experience and healthcare certifications can make up to $70,888 per year.
As with any career, case management has its challenges. Working as a case manager, you're responsible for helping your patients get the healthcare they need, which may require access to a variety of resources. One of the challenges of being a case manager is that it can be stressful at times, but it is also very rewarding.
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