As we enter another promising year at CMSA Today, I extend my deepest gratitude to each of you for your role in professional case management. In the dynamic and ever-evolving world of healthcare, the role of case managers remains pivotal. This month, we spotlight a crucial segment of our community: social workers, military and VA case managers.
THE HEART OF HEALTHCARE: SOCIAL WORKERS IN CASE MANAGEMENT
Social work in case management is more than a profession; it’s a calling. Social workers bring a unique perspective to our practice, addressing not only the physical health of patients but also their emotional and social well-being. Their expertise in navigating the intricate layers of human emotions and societal challenges is invaluable. The benefits are clear as we witness an increase in the integration of social work methodologies in case management. These advantages are improved patient outcomes, holistic care approaches and a stronger, more empathetic healthcare system. It’s heartening to see the strides we’ve made, yet the journey ahead is still rich with potential.
SERVING THOSE WHO SERVED US: MILITARY AND VA CASE MANAGERS
Shifting our focus to military and VA case management, we find a realm of service that demands professional excellence and a profound sense of duty and compassion. These case managers specialize in understanding the unique needs of veterans and active-duty military personnel, offering them the support they need in both physical and mental health realms. Recent initiatives, such as specialized training programs and collaborative care models, have significantly enhanced the support provided to our veterans. It’s a tribute to the commitment and dedication of our military and VA case managers, who stand as beacons of hope and resilience for our heroes.
NAVIGATING CHALLENGES, EMBRACING OPPORTUNITIES
In the face of ongoing challenges, such as policy shifts and limited resources, the resilience of case managers shines brightly. Our field is not static but characterized by its ability to adapt and evolve. As we confront these challenges, we uncover opportunities for growth, innovation and professional development. CMSA remains dedicated to supporting this evolution, providing resources, training and a platform for collaboration and exchange.
FORWARD TOGETHER
As we conclude this message, let us reiterate our collective commitment to the noble field of case management. Whether you’re a social worker, a military or VA case manager or a professional in any other discipline or setting of this diverse field, your work is invaluable. Your dedication to patient care and well-being makes a real difference. Let’s continue to learn, grow and excel together for the betterment of those we serve and the future of healthcare.
, DNP, RN, CCM, CMAC, CMCN, ACM-RN, FCM, is the associate chief clinical operations officer, care continuum for University of Illinois Health System and the president of the Case Management Society of America National Board of Directors. She has held positions in acute care as director of case management at several acute care facilities and managed care entities in Illinois, overseeing utilization review, case management and social services for over 14 years; piloting quality improvement initiatives focused on readmission reduction, care coordination through better communication and population health management.
Her current passion is in the area of improving health literacy. She is the recipient of the CMSA Foundation Practice Improvement Award (2020) and ANA Illinois Practice Improvement Award (2020) for her work in this area. Dr. Morley also received the AAMCN Managed Care Nurse Leader of the Year in 2010 and the CMSA Fellow of Case Management designation in 2022. Her first book, A Practical Guide to Acute Care Case Management, published by Blue Bayou Press, was released in February 2022.
Dr. Morley has over 20 years of nursing experience. Her clinical specialties include med/surg, oncology and pediatric nursing. She received her ADN at South Suburban College in South Holland, Illinois, BSN at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, Florida, MSN from Norwich University in Northfield, Vermont and her DNP at Chamberlain College of Nursing.
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