Case Manager Certifications

Explore the top Case Manager certifications that are important to a successful career.

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Getting Certified as a Case Manager

In the multifaceted world of health and human services, Case Managers play a critical role in bridging the gap between clients and the complex array of resources and care they require. Achieving certification in case management is more than a professional milestone; it's a testament to one's dedication to the field and a commitment to providing the highest standard of service.

This guide serves as your compass in the landscape of case management certifications, illuminating the path to credentials that not only bolster your expertise but also enhance your credibility in this vital sector. Whether you are taking your first steps into case management or seeking to elevate your practice, understanding the significance of these certifications is a pivotal aspect of your professional journey.

Top Case Manager Certifications

Certified Case Manager (CCM)
Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC)
Accredited Case Manager (ACM)
American Case Management Association (ACMA)
Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS)
Commission on Certification of Work Adjustment and Vocational Evaluation Specialists (CCWAVES)
Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM)
American Institute of Healthcare Compliance (AIHC)
Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)
National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
Registered Nurse Case Manager (RN-BC)
American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
Accredited Case Manager, Nursing (ACM-RN)
American Case Management Association (ACMA)
Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM)
National Association of Social Workers (NASW)

Best Case Manager Certifications

Certified Case Manager (CCM)

Certification Provider
Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC)
Best For
Registered Nurses, Licensed Social Workers, Rehabilitation Counselors, Occupational Therapists, Case Management Coordinators, Health Services Managers
Description
The Certified Case Manager (CCM) credential, offered by the Commission for Case Manager Certification (CCMC), is a prestigious, nationally recognized certification for health and human services case managers. It validates a professional's expertise in case management, including client care coordination, adherence to ethical practices, and navigating healthcare systems. Earning the CCM demonstrates a commitment to excellence, adherence to a rigorous code of professional conduct, and continuous learning. This certification is ideal for those seeking to enhance their credibility and advance their career in case management.
Includes Certification
Yes
Time to Complete
Price
Prerequisites
  • A current, active, and unrestricted licensure or certification in a health or human services discipline that allows the professional to conduct an assessment independently as permitted within the scope of practice.
  • A bachelor’s or graduate degree in social work, nursing, or another health or human services field that promotes the physical, psychosocial, and/or vocational well-being of the persons being served.
  • A minimum of 12 months of full-time case management experience supervised by a board-certified case manager (CCM).
  • Completion of 30 hours of continuing education in case management within the last 12 months prior to the application.
  • Agreement to adhere to the CCMC’s Code of Professional Conduct, including the ethical principles and policies.
  • Passing the CCMC’s Certified Case Manager exam.

    • Accredited Case Manager (ACM)

    Certification Provider
    American Case Management Association (ACMA)
    Best For
    Registered Nurses (RNs) in Case Management, Licensed Social Workers (LSWs) in Health Systems, Case Management Supervisors, Care Coordination Managers, Transitions of Care Coordinators, Health Care Administrators with Case Management Focus
    Description
    The Accredited Case Manager (ACM) certification, offered by the American Case Management Association (ACMA), is a prestigious credential designed for health care delivery system case managers and transitions of care professionals. This certification validates the expertise in case management, care transitions, and patient-centric care coordination. Candidates must pass a rigorous exam that tests knowledge and skills in areas such as assessment, planning, intervention, and evaluation. Earning the ACM demonstrates a commitment to excellence and an adherence to nationally recognized case management practices.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A current, active, and unrestricted RN or SW license in the United States, which must be maintained throughout the certification period.
  • A minimum of 12 months of Health System Case Management experience, supervised by a board-certified case manager (CCM, ACM, or ANCC) within the last five years.
  • Completion of 30 hours of continuing education in case management and related topics within the last two years, with at least 8 of those hours being ACM-specific continuing education.
  • For Social Work Case Managers, a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree from an accredited school of social work is also required.
  • Agreement to uphold the ACMA Code of Conduct and Ethics.
  • Successful completion of the ACM certification examination, which includes two components: a core knowledge exam and a simulation exam to test clinical decision-making skills.

    • Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS)

    Certification Provider
    Commission on Certification of Work Adjustment and Vocational Evaluation Specialists (CCWAVES)
    Best For
    Disability Management Consultants, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors, Human Resources Professionals with disability management focus, Case Managers in Health or Disability Services, Occupational Health Nurses, Workers' Compensation Specialists
    Description
    The Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) certification, provided by the Commission on Certification of Work Adjustment and Vocational Evaluation Specialists (CCWAVES), is a credential that recognizes expertise in disability management and advocacy. This certification focuses on enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities through workplace integration, case management, and policy implementation. Candidates will gain knowledge in legal and regulatory compliance, return-to-work coordination, and effective communication strategies to support individuals in their employment journey. The CDMS is ideal for professionals committed to facilitating meaningful employment outcomes for those with disabilities.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Bachelor's degree or higher in any field from an accredited institution, or an associate's degree in a field related to health or disability services.
  • Minimum of 12 to 24 months of paid, full-time work experience in disability management, depending on the level of education completed.
  • Completion of formal training in the core knowledge areas of disability management, which can be part of a degree program or through continuing education.
  • Agreement to adhere to the CDMS Code of Professional Conduct.
  • Passing the CDMS certification examination.
  • Maintenance of certification through continuing education and adherence to ethical standards.

    • Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM)

    Certification Provider
    American Institute of Healthcare Compliance (AIHC)
    Best For
    Healthcare Administrators, Medical and Health Services Managers, Compliance Officers in Healthcare, Healthcare Operations Managers, Clinical Managers with Management Experience, Practice Administrators with Healthcare Background
    Description
    The Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM) is a prestigious credential offered by the American Institute of Healthcare Compliance (AIHC) designed for healthcare administrators and managers. This certification focuses on equipping professionals with comprehensive knowledge of healthcare management principles, legal and ethical issues, and effective leadership skills. Candidates will learn to navigate the complexities of healthcare systems, improve patient care, and ensure compliance with healthcare laws and regulations. The CPHM is ideal for those seeking to advance their career in healthcare leadership and operations.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A minimum of two years of healthcare management or compliance experience.
  • Bachelor's degree in healthcare, business, or a related field is preferred but not required.
  • Completion of the AIHC's Certified Professional in Healthcare Management (CPHM) training program.
  • Membership with the American Institute of Healthcare Compliance (AIHC).
  • Agreement to abide by the AIHC Code of Ethics.
  • Passing the CPHM certification examination.

    • Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)

    Certification Provider
    National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
    Best For
    Health Education Specialist, Public Health Educator, Community Health Coordinator, Health Promotion Program Coordinator, School Health Educator, Corporate Wellness Consultant
    Description
    The Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) certification, offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC), is a credential that signifies a professional's expertise in designing, conducting, and evaluating health education programs. It focuses on enhancing public health through effective education strategies and requires passing a competency-based examination. CHES certification is ideal for individuals aiming to establish credibility and advance their career in health education and promotion.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A bachelor's degree or higher from an accredited institution of higher education.
  • Completion of a major course of study in health education or a significant amount of coursework related to the Seven Areas of Responsibility of Health Education Specialists.
  • Official transcripts sent directly from the college or university to the NCHEC.
  • Passing the CHES examination, which assesses knowledge and skills in the Seven Areas of Responsibility for Health Education Specialists.
  • Agreement to adhere to the NCHEC Code of Ethics for Health Education Specialists.
  • For those who do not meet the academic qualifications, a current resume and a detailed job description may be required to demonstrate eligibility through work experience in the health education field.

    • Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES)

    Certification Provider
    National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC)
    Best For
    Senior Health Educators, Public Health Program Managers, Health Education Consultants, Community Health Program Directors, Health Promotion Specialists, University Health Education Professors
    Description
    The Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) is an advanced credential offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing, Inc. (NCHEC). It signifies a high level of competency and leadership in the health education field. Candidates must demonstrate expertise in areas such as program management, health education policy, and research. The MCHES is designed for professionals with significant experience, aiming to validate their skills in developing and executing effective health education programs and interventions.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Current Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential in good standing, or CHES certification that has been expired for no more than five years.
  • Completion of a master's degree or higher in Health Education, Public Health Education, School Health Education, Community Health Education, etc., or a master's degree with an academic transcript reflecting at least 25 semester hours (37 quarter hours) of course work in which the Seven Areas of Responsibility of Health Educators were addressed.
  • Five years of documented experience as a health education specialist after receiving the CHES certification.
  • Submission of a current professional resume or curriculum vitae.
  • Agreement to adhere to the NCHEC Code of Ethics.
  • Passing the MCHES examination, which assesses the advanced-level Sub-competencies of the Health Education Specialist Practice Analysis (HESPA II 2020).

    • Registered Nurse Case Manager (RN-BC)

    Certification Provider
    American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
    Best For
    Registered Nurse Case Managers, Care Coordination Nurses, Nurses with 2+ years in case management, Health Services Managers, Clinical Nurse Leaders, Nurse Administrators with case management focus
    Description
    The Registered Nurse Case Manager (RN-BC) certification, provided by the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), is a credential that recognizes the expertise of nurses who specialize in case management. This certification validates a nurse's ability to effectively manage patient care across various settings, ensuring that patients receive appropriate, timely, and cost-effective healthcare services. It encompasses knowledge of the entire healthcare continuum, including coordination of care, advocacy, resource management, and the application of evidence-based practice. Obtaining the RN-BC demonstrates a commitment to professional development and excellence in the field of nurse case management.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Current, active RN license within a state or territory of the United States or the professional, legally recognized equivalent in another country.
  • A minimum of 2,000 hours of clinical practice in nursing case management within the last three years.
  • Completion of 30 hours of continuing education in nursing case management within the last three years.
  • A bachelor's degree or higher in nursing or a relevant field is strongly preferred, though not explicitly required.
  • Passing the RN-BC examination administered by the ANCC.
  • Compliance with ANCC's professional development and practice requirements for maintaining certification.

    • Accredited Case Manager, Nursing (ACM-RN)

    Certification Provider
    American Case Management Association (ACMA)
    Best For
    Registered Nurse Case Managers, Hospital-Based RN Case Coordinators, Clinical Nurse Case Managers, Nurse Advocates with Case Management Experience, Community Health RN Case Managers, Managed Care RN Case Managers
    Description
    The Accredited Case Manager, Nursing (ACM-RN) certification, offered by the American Case Management Association (ACMA), is a prestigious credential for registered nurses specializing in case management. This certification validates a nurse's expertise in care coordination, patient advocacy, and resource management, ensuring high standards of practice in navigating complex healthcare systems. ACM-RN holders demonstrate a commitment to enhancing patient outcomes and optimizing healthcare delivery, making them valuable assets in diverse clinical settings.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • Current, active, and unrestricted RN license in the United States, which must be maintained throughout the certification period.
  • A minimum of 12 months of full-time case management experience supervised by a board-certified case manager (CCM), or equivalent professional experience as specified by ACMA.
  • Completion of a minimum of 30 hours of continuing education in case management within the last two years.
  • Passing the ACM-RN certification examination, which assesses knowledge of case management, healthcare management, and patient care.
  • Adherence to the ACMA's Code of Conduct and Standards of Practice.
  • Renewal of certification every four years, which requires ongoing professional development and adherence to the ACMA's policies.

    • Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM)

    Certification Provider
    National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
    Best For
    Social Work Case Manager, Medical Social Worker, Child and Family Social Worker, Mental Health Social Worker, Substance Abuse Social Worker, Social Work Supervisor
    Description
    The Certified Social Work Case Manager (C-SWCM) credential, provided by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), is designed for social workers specializing in case management. This certification validates the holder's expertise in navigating complex social systems, advocating for clients, and managing caseloads effectively. It emphasizes ethical practice, cultural competency, and evidence-based approaches. To obtain the C-SWCM, candidates must demonstrate a blend of educational achievement, supervised practical experience, and a commitment to ongoing professional development in the field of social work case management.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A bachelor’s degree in social work or a related field from an accredited institution
  • A minimum of three years (4,500 hours) of paid, supervised, post-bachelor’s social work experience in case management within the last six years
  • Twenty hours of relevant continuing education within the last two years, including ethics
  • Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and the NASW Standards for Continuing Professional Education
  • Current state licensure for social work practice at the bachelor’s level or higher
  • Passing the ASWB bachelor’s level Association of Social Work Boards (ASWB) examination or an equivalent state licensing exam

    • Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM)

    Certification Provider
    National Association of Social Workers (NASW)
    Best For
    Licensed Clinical Social Workers, Medical Social Workers, Social Work Case Managers with Master's-level experience, Social Work Supervisors, Health Care Social Workers, Mental Health Social Workers
    Description
    The Certified Advanced Social Work Case Manager (C-ASWCM) credential, provided by the National Association of Social Workers (NASW), is designed for experienced social work professionals seeking to demonstrate expertise in case management. This certification emphasizes advanced practice skills, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to the highest standards of client care. Candidates must show proficiency in navigating complex service systems, facilitating client self-determination, and advocating for social justice. The C-ASWCM is a mark of professional achievement and a testament to a social worker's dedication to advanced case management practice.
    Includes Certification
    Yes
    Time to Complete
    Price
    Prerequisites
  • A current and valid social work license at the master's level (LMSW, LCSW, LICSW, etc.)
  • A minimum of two years (equivalent of 3,000 hours) of paid, supervised, post-master’s social work employment in case management within the last five years
  • 20 contact hours of relevant continuing education in case management within the last three years, with at least 10 hours in formal continuing education programs
  • Adherence to the NASW Code of Ethics and the NASW Standards for Continuing Professional Education
  • Professional recommendation from a supervisor or a colleague familiar with the applicant's case management work
  • Completion of the C-ASWCM application process, which includes documentation of the above requirements and payment of a certification fee

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    Benefits of Having a Case Manager Certification

    Professional Validation and Expertise: Earning a Case Manager certification is a powerful statement of your professional dedication and expertise in the field of case management. It demonstrates to employers, colleagues, and clients that you have undergone rigorous training and assessment, validating your knowledge and skills in accordance with industry standards.

    Comprehensive Skill Enhancement: A certification in case management is designed to deepen your understanding of core principles such as client assessment, care coordination, and resource management. It equips you with a broad set of competencies that are essential for effectively navigating the complexities of the healthcare and human services systems.

    Improved Employment Prospects: In a competitive job market, a Case Manager certification can be the edge you need. It can significantly enhance your resume, making you a more attractive candidate for employment, and can also be influential during promotions and salary discussions, showcasing your commitment to ongoing professional development.

    Access to Professional Resources and Networks: Certification programs often provide access to exclusive resources, current research, and professional networks. These connections can be instrumental in staying abreast of changes in the field, finding mentorship opportunities, and enhancing your ability to provide high-quality case management services.

    Confidence in Practice: The process of becoming certified can instill a greater level of self-assurance in your case management practice. This confidence stems from a reinforced understanding of your role and responsibilities, and the recognition that you are equipped to make informed, ethical decisions that positively impact the lives of those you serve.

    How to Choose the Best Case Manager Certification

    Choosing the right certification as a Case Manager is a pivotal step in enhancing your professional capabilities and ensuring that you are equipped to meet the diverse needs of your clients. The certification you select should not only validate your expertise but also expand your knowledge base, enabling you to provide the highest quality of care. With a variety of certifications available, it's essential to consider which one will best support your professional development and align with the specific requirements of your role within the healthcare or social service sectors. Here are five key tips to guide you in selecting a certification that is tailored to your career progression as a Case Manager:
    • Evaluate Specialization vs. Generalization: Reflect on whether you want to specialize in a certain area of case management or if a general certification will suffice. Specialized certifications can lead to niche roles in areas like mental health, geriatrics, or substance abuse, while general certifications may offer broader opportunities.
    • Consider the Client Populations You Serve: Choose a certification that is pertinent to the demographics of your client base. If you work with a specific population, such as veterans, children, or those with chronic illnesses, look for certifications that provide expertise in those areas.
    • Review Certification Requirements: Examine the prerequisites for obtaining the certification. Ensure that you meet the educational and experiential requirements, and that you are prepared to commit to any ongoing education needed to maintain the certification.
    • Assess the Certification's Impact on Career Advancement: Research how the certification is viewed within your industry. Does it have a reputation for enhancing job prospects, earning potential, or leadership opportunities? Select a certification that is recognized for contributing to career growth.
    • Look for Value-Added Components: Investigate if the certification offers additional benefits such as access to professional networks, resources, or conferences. These extras can provide significant value beyond the certification itself, enriching your professional journey.

    Preparing for Your Case Manager Certification

    Preparing for a Case Manager certification is a significant step in advancing your career and enhancing your professional capabilities. This process involves more than just familiarizing yourself with the exam content; it's about integrating knowledge with practice and understanding how to apply principles effectively in real-life situations. A certification can validate your expertise, open doors to new opportunities, and potentially lead to better client outcomes. To maximize the benefits of your certification efforts, follow these strategic guidelines to ensure you're thoroughly prepared not only to pass the certification exam but also to excel in your role as a Case Manager.

    Set Clear Objectives: Before embarking on your certification journey, define what you want to accomplish. Are you seeking to solidify your foundational knowledge of case management, or are you looking to specialize in a niche area such as health care, mental health, or children's services? Understanding your goals will help you select the right certification and tailor your preparation to focus on the areas that will be most beneficial to your career path.

    Develop a Comprehensive Study Plan: Craft a study plan that encompasses all the domains of knowledge required for the certification exam. Break down the content into sections and create a schedule that dedicates time to each topic. Make sure to include regular intervals for revision and self-assessment. Utilize a variety of study materials, such as textbooks, online resources, and practice tests, to reinforce your learning and identify areas that need more attention.

    Join a Case Management Community: Engaging with a community of peers can greatly enhance your preparation. Look for study groups, professional associations, and online forums where you can discuss study strategies, clarify concepts, and learn from the experiences of certified Case Managers. Networking with others in the field can provide moral support and may lead to insights and resources that you might not have discovered on your own.

    Apply Your Knowledge Practically: Theory is important, but the ability to apply what you've learned to real-world situations is crucial. Seek out opportunities to use case management principles in your current role or through volunteer work. Participate in simulations or case studies provided by your certification program. The more you practice, the better you'll understand the material and the more prepared you'll be to implement your skills effectively after certification.

    Utilize Official Certification Resources: Make sure to take advantage of study guides, practice exams, and other resources provided by the certifying body. These materials are specifically designed to help you understand the format and content of the certification exam. Familiarizing yourself with the types of questions you'll encounter and the way the exam is structured will help reduce test anxiety and increase your confidence on exam day.

    Certification FAQs for Case Managers

    Is getting a Case Manager certification worth it?

    The value of a Case Manager certification hinges on your professional objectives, experience level, and the sector you're aiming to work in. For newcomers, it can lay the groundwork, familiarize you with key practices, and signal dedication to the field. For seasoned professionals, it's a way to stay current, specialize further, or validate expertise.

    Certifications can bolster your reputation and distinguish your profile in a field where trust and competence are paramount. In a landscape where employers value certified individuals for their verified skills and knowledge, earning a certification could be a strategic move to advance your career as a Case Manager.

    Do you need a certification to get a job as a Case Manager?

    Certification for Case Managers is not universally required but can be a significant asset when seeking employment. It demonstrates a commitment to the profession and a standardized level of knowledge and competence. For those new to the field or with unrelated backgrounds, a certification can help bridge the gap and signal readiness for the role.

    However, employers often value hands-on experience with client management, problem-solving skills, and a deep understanding of healthcare systems or social services. A blend of relevant experience, strong interpersonal skills, and certification can provide a robust foundation for a successful career as a Case Manager.

    Can Case Manager certifications help pivoters make the transition into Customer Service from another career path?

    Yes, Case Manager certifications can be instrumental for those shifting from a different career into case management. These certifications typically delve into key practices, ethical standards, and the healthcare system, equipping newcomers with essential knowledge. They validate your dedication to mastering core competencies and signal to employers your readiness for the role. Additionally, the community and professional connections formed during certification courses can offer support and open doors in the case management field.
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