I am so proud to be a nurse case manager.  I have worked in this industry since 1999 and became certified in 2003.  October 10-16, 2010 marks National Case Management Week, recognizing the contributions and commitments case managers make and educating the public about the significant work we perform. When employed by an agency or hospital, activities typically include banquets and recognition dinners, state and city proclamations, continuing education seminars, and other community events. Case Managers are typically honored with gifts, dinners, and flowers coworkers such as doctors and administrators, and patients who want to show their appreciation.

As an independent case manager, I do not get to participate in such activities, but I can still celebrate.  Here are a few ways each of us can participate in National Case Management Week.

• Tell 10 other professionals you are a case manager
• Offer to speak at community events on case management
• Wear your CMSA Member Pin
• Promote case management by sponsoring or volunteering at a health fair, preventive screening or organizing services in your community
• Host a reception in your community
• Host a professional seminar for health professionals in your community
• Highlight a different case management practice setting each day of the special week in your newsletter or blog
• Encourage your mayor, county executive or governor to issue a local proclamation establishing October 10-1th as National Case Management Week
• Invite a politician to accompany a case manager at their place of business for a day
• Decorate with banners, posters, or flyers
• Publish newsletters focusing on CM week
• Speak to nursing organizations about case management careers
• Create a publication of case management stories
• Write a letter to your local paper
• Contact radio and TV stations to let them know about CM week
• Write a guest editorial to newspapers, journals or magazines regarding the positive impact of case management
• Distribute a press release announcing CM week

I am committing to several of these activities this year.  (I just completed one by posting this!)  I am glad I have an opportunity to impact my patient’s lives everyday.  The very things that seem so simple to me, make a big difference in the lives of others.  I just hope I can continue this for many years to come.

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