Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Definitions, Differences, & Similarities

The role of care managers and case managers in the healthcare industry can often be confusing, as there is a lot of overlap between their responsibilities.

Both care managers and case managers work to coordinate and manage care for patients, but they do so in slightly different ways.

 In this article, we will explore the definitions, differences, and similarities of care managers and case managers, to help clarify the role each plays in the healthcare system.

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Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Definitions

Who is a care manager?

A care manager, also known as a healthcare navigator or patient advocate, is a professional who works with individuals and families to coordinate and manage their healthcare needs.

They have a background in nursing, social work, or healthcare administration and have the training to understand the complexities of the healthcare system.

Care managers work closely with patients, their families, and healthcare providers to develop and implement a plan of care that addresses the patient’s physical, emotional, and social needs.

They also help patients navigate the healthcare system, connect them with community resources, and advocate for their rights. Care managers may work in various settings, including hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, insurance companies, and private practice.

Who is a case manager?

A case manager is a professional who coordinates and manages care for individuals, typically those with chronic illness or disabilities. They work with various healthcare providers and community resources to develop a comprehensive plan of respect for the patient.

 Case managers may also help patients navigate the healthcare system and access appropriate services, such as medical treatment, social services, and community resources. They may also assist patients with financial and insurance-related issues.

Case managers often work in hospitals, insurance companies, and social service agencies. They typically have a background in nursing, social work, or healthcare administration and are trained to understand the complexities of the healthcare system.

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Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Differences

Care Manager	Case Manager
Coordinates and manages healthcare for patients and their families	Coordinates and manages care for individuals with chronic illness or disabilities
Works with patients and families to develop and implement a plan of care	Works with a variety of healthcare providers and community resources to develop a comprehensive plan of care
Helps patients navigate the healthcare system, connect with community resources, and advocate for their rights	Helps patients navigate the healthcare system, access appropriate services and assist with financial and insurance-related issues
May work in hospitals, clinics, nursing homes, insurance companies, and private practice	Often work in hospitals, insurance companies, and social service agencies
Typically has a background in nursing, social work, or healthcare administration	Typically has a background in nursing, social work, or healthcare administration

Note that care managers and case managers may have similar backgrounds, but their roles and responsibilities differ regarding their focus and the population they serve.

Care managers focus on patients and families and help them navigate the healthcare system, connecting them with resources and advocating for their rights.

Case managers focus on individuals with chronic illnesses or disabilities, and help them access appropriate services, navigate the healthcare system, and assist with financial and insurance-related issues.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Similarities

Care and case managers work with individuals, families, and communities to coordinate and manage healthcare services and resources. They both strive to improve patient outcomes and satisfaction while containing costs.

However, care managers often work with older adults and individuals with chronic conditions. In contrast, case managers may work with a broader range of populations, such as those with injuries or disabilities. They may also be involved in the case of management for insurance companies.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Skills

Care and case managers help individuals navigate the healthcare system and coordinate their care. However, there are some critical differences in the skills required for these two roles.

Care managers typically have a nursing or social work background and coordinate an individual’s overall healthcare plan. They work with patients and their families to identify their health needs and goals and then blend with healthcare providers to meet those needs.

Care managers must have a strong understanding of the healthcare system and be able to communicate effectively with patients and healthcare providers. They must also work effectively in a team and have strong problem-solving skills.

On the other hand, case managers typically have a background in social work or a related field. They coordinate services for individuals with a specific condition or need. They work with patients and their families to identify their needs and goals and then blend them with community resources to meet those needs.

Case managers must have a strong understanding of community resources and be able to communicate effectively with patients and their families. They must also work effectively in a team and have strong problem-solving skills.

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Care Manager Vs Case Manager: Where do they Work?

Care managers and case managers can work in various settings, including hospitals, nursing homes, rehabilitation centers, insurance companies, government agencies, and private practices.

Also, care managers are found in settings that provide care for older adults and those with chronic conditions, such as assisted living facilities, home health agencies, and adult day care centers. They may also work in hospitals, nursing homes, and rehabilitation centers.

On the other hand, case managers may be found in hospitals, insurance companies, government agencies, and private practices. They may also work in long-term care facilities, home health agencies, and rehabilitation centers.

Additionally, some case managers work in community-based organizations and social service agencies, helping clients access resources and support.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager – Career Path

A Care Manager and a Case Manager are professionals who help individuals and families with healthcare needs. They typically work in healthcare settings such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and social service agencies.

A Care Manager typically coordinates and oversees the care of individuals with chronic medical conditions or disabilities. They work to ensure that their clients receive appropriate medical treatment and social and support services. They may also help clients manage their medications, coordinate appointments, and access resources.

A Case Manager, on the other hand, is typically responsible for coordinating care for individuals with specific health conditions, such as mental illness or substance abuse. They work with clients to develop treatment plans, connect them with community resources, and monitor their progress.

Care Managers and Case Managers typically have a healthcare or social work background and may hold relevant professional certifications. Both also may have similar job duties but have different focuses and emphases.

 Care managers focus on coordinating care for individuals and have a background in the healthcare field. In contrast, Case managers focus on coordinating services for individuals and have an experience in social work or a related field.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager – Educational Qualification

The educational qualifications for Care Managers and Case Managers can vary depending on the employer and the specific job. However, both roles typically require at least a bachelor’s degree in a related field, such as nursing, social work, or healthcare administration.

Care Managers may also hold a license as a registered nurse (RN) or a licensed practical nurse (LPN) with additional relevant certifications such as Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Case Manager (CCM), or Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM).

Case Managers may hold a degree in social work (BSW or MSW) or a related field, such as counseling or psychology. They may also have relevant professional certifications, such as the Certified Case Manager (CCM) or the Accredited Case Manager (ACM).

In some cases, Case Managers may be able to start their career with an associate’s degree if they have relevant experience or skills.

It is important to note that the requirement may vary by state or employer, so it’s best to check the specific needs of the job or the employer.

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Care Manager Vs Case Manager – Which school gives qualifications?

Many universities and colleges offer programs specifically designed to prepare students for careers as Care Managers or Case Managers.

These programs may be presented at the undergraduate or graduate level and housed within schools of nursing, social work, healthcare administration, or other related fields.

Some examples of universities that offer programs specifically for Care Management or Geriatric Care management include:

• University of Southern California (USC)
• University of North Texas
• Maryville University
• University of Minnesota
• University of Colorado Denver

For Case Management programs, some of the universities that offer them include:

• University of Southern California (USC)
• Boston University
• University of Denver
• University of Oklahoma
• University of Wisconsin-Madison

It’s important to note that many universities also offer related programs such as Health Services Administration, which may prepare students for a career as a Care Manager or Case Manager. You should research the program you are interested in and ensure that it aligns with your career goals.

It’s also worth noting that online education is also a popular way to pursue a degree or certification in Care Management or Case Management, as it allows working professionals to study while they continue to work.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager – Salary Range

The pay for Care Managers and Case Managers can vary depending on factors such as experience, education, location, and the specific employer. However, both roles tend to have similar pay ranges.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary for Medical and Health Services Managers, which includes Care Managers and Case Managers, was $115,160 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $70,430, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $182,600.

Salaries for Care Managers and Case Managers can also vary depending on the type of employer. For example, Care Managers and Case Managers working in hospitals tend to have higher salaries than those working in nursing homes or home health agencies.

It’s also worth noting that Care Managers and Case Managers with relevant certifications, advanced degrees, or several years of experience may have higher pay than those who do not have these qualifications.

Care Manager Vs Case Manager – Job Outlook

The job outlook for Care Managers and Case Managers is generally positive as the healthcare industry continues to grow and the population ages.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of Medical and Health Services Managers, which includes Care Managers and Case Managers, is projected to grow by 32 percent from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations.

This growth is due to an aging population and the increasing use of managed care, which will require more managers to oversee the delivery of healthcare services.

As the healthcare industry continues to grow and the population ages, the demand for Care Managers and Case Managers will likely continue to increase.

The increasing emphasis on preventing and managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes and heart disease, is also expected to drive demand for Care Managers and Case Managers, as these professionals will be needed to help coordinate care for patients with these conditions.

It’s important to note that the job outlook may vary depending on the region or state, and it’s best to check the specific job outlook for the area you are interested in.

Can A Care Manager Become A Case Manager?

Yes, a Care Manager can become a Case Manager and vice versa. Both Care Managers and Case Managers have similar education and experience requirements, and both roles involve coordinating and overseeing healthcare services for patients.

However, Care Managers typically focus on coordinating and overseeing the care of individuals with chronic medical conditions or disabilities. Case Managers typically focus on coordinating care for individuals with specific health conditions such as mental illness or substance abuse.

To become a Case Manager, a Care Manager may need to gain additional experience working with patients with specific conditions and obtain relevant certifications such as the Certified Case Manager (CCM) or the Accredited Case Manager (ACM).

They could also pursue further education in social work, psychology, counseling, or related fields.

Similarly, to become a Care Manager, a Case Manager may need to gain additional experience working with patients with chronic conditions, and obtain relevant certifications such as Care Manager Certified (CMC), Certified Geriatric Care Manager (CGCM), or get further education in nursing or healthcare administration related fields.

Both Care Managers and Case Managers have transferable skills and knowledge, and with additional education, experience, and certification, a Care Manager can become a Case Manager and vice versa.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Summary

In summary, Care Managers and Case Managers are professionals who play essential roles in the healthcare industry by helping individuals and families with healthcare needs.

Care and Case Managers work to ensure that their clients receive appropriate medical treatment and social and support services.

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