by Deanna Cooper Gillingham, RN, CCM, FCM | May 1, 2017 |

Over the last few weeks, we’ve been talking about how amazing becoming a certified case manager is. We’ve gone over how your career will grow, your earnings will increase, and how more employment opportunities await certified case managers. We’ve even talked about the great conferences to attend!
So, you’ve been reading about case management and have decided it is a career move you’d love to pursue. Let’s go over the details of eligibility.
Are You Eligible?
As our world continues to change, the demand for patient-centered healthcare is increasing rapidly. As a result, the need for professional case managers has grown substantially.
The Commission for Case Manager Certification has heeded this need by changing the eligibility criteria for case managers seeking board certification. These changes give much better – qualified professionals the opportunity to take their career to the next level.
According to the CCM Certification Guide, there are 3 areas of qualification applicants must meet to be eligible to take the exam.
- Meet specific licensure or education requirements.
- Qualify within one of CCMC’s employment category experience categories.
- Be of good moral character, consistent with the CCMC Code of Professional Conduct.
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by Deanna Cooper Gillingham, RN, CCM, FCM | Apr 18, 2017 |

Are you currently working as a case manager?
Are you making $75,000 or more a year?
The CCM recently released a new survey which reveals some fascinating facts about the growth of Certified Case Managers. As the healthcare world continues to become harder to navigate, the need for qualified case managers is growing rapidly.
As the survey points out, since the Affordable Care Act has become law, the number of case managers holding the CCM credential has risen from around 20,000 to more than 42,000. This is good news for the patients who rely on well-educated, dependable care coordinators to help guide them, and the hard working case managers themselves. Becoming a certified case manager is a win, win for all involved.
Here are just a few reasons to take that next step and become certified.
Increased Earning Potential
According to the latest CCM survey, released at the end of March 2017, the median average salary for Certified Case Managers is between $75,000 – $80,000 a year, well above the average RN or Social Worker salary. Even more interesting is that almost half (45%) earn over $80,000 a year! (more…)
by Deanna Cooper Gillingham, RN, CCM, FCM | Mar 27, 2017
The April Certified Case Manager exam is coming up!
Are you excited? Feeling ready? Well, Deanna has updated the post even though the exam has remained the same. Click the link below to go to the newest article. https://casemanagementstudyguide.com/last-minute-tips-to-pass-the-ccm-exam/
Here are a few tips for the last week of preparation.
Day Before the Exam
- Ensure you know where the exam will be administered, and this is a good time to do a “test drive” so you’re aware of traffic issues, where to park, etc.
- Take the day off from studying
- Watch your caffeine intake
- Help prepare your body for sleep by doing a physically tiring activity such as jogging, swimming or biking
Night Before the Exam
- Eat a healthy dinner that won’t cause heartburn or indigestion
- Set out or pack everything you need for the next morning, clothes, notes, directions to the testing center, etc.
- The few minutes right before you go to sleep are great for memorization, read over the main points in your notes, vocabulary words, etc.
- Set an alarm, maybe two, just in case
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by Deanna Cooper Gillingham, RN, CCM, FCM | Mar 14, 2017
Case Managers Enjoy Networking and Nightlife in the Heart of Texas

Question: Which U.S. city has a legendary live music scene, has been ranked the 2nd best city to live in, and has “Silicon Hills” as a nickname?
Answer: Austin, Texas Not only is Austin an amazing place to visit, but it is also where the Case Management Society of America will be hosting their 2017 conference.
Have You Considered Attending a Case Management Conference?
Attending conferences is a great way to improve your career. By coming together with like-minded professionals, your opportunities for professional growth and networking are unlimited. Conferences provide the chance to meet industry experts and influencers in person. This year’s keynote speakers include Dr. Mary D. Naylor, Dr. Stuart Robertshaw (Dr. Humor) and Jonathan Mann.
You will learn about new tools to use for case management, expanding your resources, networking with new colleagues and having fun doing it! Additionally, you can break out of your comfort zone, travel to a beautiful city and learn new things in a new space.
Join Us in Austin!
Austin is located in the heart of Texas. The city is home to more than 250 music venues, a vibrant arts scene, a wonderful ballet company, world-class museums, one of a kind shopping and beautiful outdoor spaces. There is truly something for everyone to enjoy in this beautiful city. (more…)
by Deanna Cooper Gillingham, RN, CCM, FCM | Feb 28, 2017

Do you love being a CaseManager, but feel stuck in your career? Are you looking to grow in your profession, or move up in your current position?
You love being a case manager and want to continue, but you’re looking for a way to make it an even better profession.
Obtaining certification may be the answer you are looking for. There are many reasons becoming certified will help you both personally and professionally. There are increased job opportunities for certified case managers. According to the CCMC, “the percentage of employers who require board-certification is growing, 40.2% in 2014 vs. 25.9% in 2004. (more…)