How to break into case management nursing and utilization review....

**NickiLaughs, ADN, BSN, RN** · Jun 5, 2012

This isn't a very active forum I've noticed. From what I've seen, it seems like you almost have to know someone or be working somewhere that will let you switch to a case management position and train you. It's not very easy to break into.

nursingosaurus · Jun 5, 2012

Thank you for your insight, and I have noticed the same thing. Can't give up though!!!!

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Jun 5, 2012

From what I've seen, it seems like you almost have to know someone or be working somewhere that will let you switch to a case management position and train you.

This is how I did it!!! I switched using connections in the hospital where I worked as a Staff RN. I ended up taking a cut in pay to do it but it was worth every cent! Now I have CM work experience and I had no trouble getting another better paying CM job and I am in the process of landing a good paying Per Diem CM job to boot! Good Luck!

judywag · Jun 6, 2012

Hi there , from what i have heard , you should look up all medical insurance companies ex: united.Frequently i see them advertise for will train then can telecommute and they appear to offer good packages. Hope that helps,

nurseprnRN, BSN, RN · Jun 8, 2012

check out the case management society of america (cmsa) and hook up with your local chapter. if you are anywhere near san francisco, that's where this year's annual conference is-- see if you can go, june 19-22, moscone center. the website will tell you about how to become a member and where next year's conference is. do plan to go to that one. check out the requirements to become certified in case mgmt (ccm) and start working on it.

one of the best things to do for yourself as a beginning cm is to get some good mentoring. i was fortunate to have wonderful ones when i was starting out. you will also hear of job openings before they're posted and make some friends who can recommend you as a newbie. dress like a professional-- business or business casual. you'll be dealing with people who are more business than medicine-- culture change!

you do not have to be an in-house cm-- as a matter of fact, i recommend starting elsewhere. i had been a critical care specialist when i began in work comp cm and knew just about nothing about it; i learned to love occ med. they hire you for your brains, your ability to read medical stuff and understand it, your ability to work independently and to be comfortable seeking new ways to learn, and they'll teach you the ropes as you go.

i was devastated to lose my critical care clin spec job in a reorg, but in retrospect it was the best thing that ever happened to me. it got me where i am today.

emilysmom,RN · Jun 9, 2012

I am a RN case manager for a home health company. I also do home care visits.

Are-En-Fla · Jun 12, 2012

I would eventually like to get into case management as well. I am finding that working on the floor, when seeing the case managers, I let them know what is going on with my patients. They seem to like that I have interest in what they are doing and seek me out now instead of me seeking them out. I was even offered a part time position but I don't want to take it right now since I am not even through with my 6 month orientation period! I feel that I need more patient care experience to tackle this stressful position. So, I would have to say that it is probably true that you have to shmooze with the case managers on your floor to get your foot in.

BahaMamamaRN · Jun 13, 2012

Lol at your reference to "schmoozing the case managers on the floor" laughing but good advice for those seeking a position. I find everyone we have hired are from CM recommending floor nurses or other known experienced case managers who knows someone experienced or not. Good luck in your search.

MArdt1 · Jun 19, 2012

I know Wellcare in Tampa is hiring Telephonic Case Managers, if they don't have Case Mgmt exp, an ICU background will do. 9-6 Shift, Competitive Salary, and manageable work load. You should check out their website. Hope this helps! Have a wonderful Day! ~ Melissa

Missy71940 · Jul 24, 2012

It is hard isn't it. I have worked for 8 years as a medsurg/relief supervisor/icu nurse. I am from a small hospital I am fortunate to have experience with pediatrics, postpartum, gyno, ortho, surgical, and typical med surg patients. I recently applied for a beginning case management job within my company and was not even granted an interview. I got a kiss off letter telling me how unqualified I was. LOL

Good luck. I hope you get a foot in the door somewhere.

Missy

SummerGarden, BSN, MSN, RN · Jul 25, 2012

Missy, did you actually talk to the Director of Case Management within your company prior to applying for the position? If not, that is probably where you went wrong. It is possible that the position to which you submitted your application had a specific nurse in mind as oppose to being a real position for anyone to apply. Currently that is what is going on where I work. A position is posted and only two nurses are being considered for the position despite others on the outside submitting applications.

Thus, talk to the hiring manager and let him/her know of your interest to change your Nursing specialty to Case Management. Also, be sure to ask him/her the best way you can improve your resume for future consideration within an entry-level position. Who knows? The next time there is an opening for an entry-level Case Manager within your facility, you may be the nurse the hiring manager has in mind. Good Luck.