Is there a secret to getting a promotion? We interview professional Medical Management nurses (that is Case Management, Utilization Management, and Quality Management) on a daily basis and often candidates express interest in moving from staff-level positions to management opportunities. We recently published a paper entitled “The Road to Medical Management Leadership” that addresses the key components for getting promoted into leadership roles such as that of a supervisor, manager, or director. In this document, we aim to shed some light and share our professional perspective as well as insight from leaders who have successfully transitioned into roles of increasing oversight, demand or responsibility. Below we expand on the first item addressed, “They have advanced education and certifications specific to their profession.” Download the full white paper to read more about these 5 key steps to success.
Ten years’ ago, as we went through the recruitment cycle with medical management candidates, we found that many managed care organizations and hospitals would substitute a certain amount of experience for education. That trend has spiked significantly since the downturn of the economy and advanced education, certifications and enhanced credentials have become a mainstay requirement. Completing a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or accomplishing an RN to MSN program shows employers that you’re invested in your career, willing to commit to a long term goal, and see it through to fruition. Similarly, completing an advanced certification related to your job function, such as becoming a Certified Professional in Healthcare Quality (CPHQ) or a Certified Professional in Utilization Review (CPUR), demonstrates your commitment to your specialization.
“Schooling is very important. I went back to school after 35 years because degrees are more and more of a requirement, but more importantly, the content of the classes you take in obtaining that degree play into making you better at your job.”
– Linda Novak, RN serves as Manager of Case Management for an Arizona health plan.
Going through the daily cycle of your responsibilities can be burdensome alone, but true leaders are always looking to heed Dr. Stephen R. Covey’s well-known advice to continually “sharpen the saw” and maintain the edge through continual education and professional certification. To broaden the opportunities of available leadership consideration, you must take the time to know your profession. Interacting with others in your field will help you stay aware of trends. For example, if you are a Nurse Case Manager, be active in your local chapter of the American Case Management Association (ACMA) or Case Management Society of America (CMSA). Learn about specialized certifications offered in your Association. Displaying that you earnestly strive to obtain and maintain professional certifications shows the employer you are progressive and would promote a culture of ‘doing’ not just ‘asking’. Employers trust their leadership to ‘doers’ and those that can set a good example for their team to follow.
For more information on educational programs and certifications specific to medical management, please visit our resource page at https://heygotamoment.com/resources