Navigating the complexities of healthcare requires expert guidance, especially in the critical field of case management. The evolving landscape demands professionals who are not only experienced but also deeply committed to fostering best practices and continuous improvement. The individuals highlighted below represent a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives, shaping the direction of effective case management and embodying the principles of Compass Learning in healthcare.
Leading Voices in Case Management
This distinguished group of advisors and contributors brings decades of collective experience across various facets of healthcare, from direct patient care to leadership roles in major health systems and insurance providers. Their expertise spans nursing, social work, utilization management, and clinical program development, providing a holistic understanding of the challenges and opportunities within case management.
Nursing Expertise: Guiding Patient Care Pathways
Registered Nurses form a significant part of this expert group, bringing their frontline experience and dedication to patient-centered care. Sharil Dowling, RN, ACM-RN, IQCI, Manager of Case Management at HCA’s West Florida Division, exemplifies leadership in nursing case management. Similarly, Katrina Cravens, RN, BSN, ACM-RN, IQCI, Director of Inpatient and Case Management Throughput at Tenet Healthcare, leverages over 25 years of experience to identify and implement best practices in policy, utilization review, and discharge planning. Audrey Cantu-Alves MSN, RN, CCM, CMCN, System Director of Utilization Management for a large non-profit organization, further strengthens this nursing leadership with her extensive background in both case management and utilization management. Their insights are crucial in developing compass learning approaches that prioritize efficient and effective patient care pathways.
Social Work Perspectives: Addressing Holistic Needs
Social workers play a vital role in case management by addressing the psychosocial and environmental factors impacting patient well-being. Dana Ballinger, MSW, MPH, LCSW, Manager of Case Management at St. Louis Children’s Hospital, brings a social work lens to pediatric case management. Pat Kramer, Ed.S, ACM-SW, CCM, CSW, NCC, Senior Director of Case Management for Duke University Health System, with 30 years in hospital case management, offers a deep understanding of the evolution of the field and the importance of mental health considerations. Kimberly Browne, LCSW, ACM-SW, Assistant Director of Social Work at Tampa General Hospital, expands this perspective with her expertise in medical social work, behavioral healthcare integration, and addressing homelessness. Their contributions are essential for a compass learning model that emphasizes holistic patient care and social determinants of health.
Leadership in Clinical Program Development and Management
Effective case management requires strong leadership to drive innovation and ensure program effectiveness. Charlotte Crist, RN-BC, CCM, CPHQ, Managing Director, Clinical Programs for Blue Cross Blue Shield of Rhode Island, demonstrates this leadership by managing the development and enhancement of member engagement strategies and clinical programs. Pat Kramer and Katrina Cravens, in their directorial roles, also exemplify leadership in shaping case management practices within large healthcare systems. Their leadership experience is invaluable in shaping compass learning initiatives that are practical, scalable, and impactful across diverse healthcare settings.
Contributors: A Collaborative Approach to Compass Learning
The strength of compass learning lies in collaboration and the sharing of diverse perspectives. In addition to the advisory board, a group of contributors further enriches this collaborative environment. This group includes experienced professionals such as Angi Gragg, RN, MSN, CCM, ACM, Sharon Cryer BSN, M.Ed, Jennifer Readman RN, BSN, ACM-RN, Betty Houbion, Dottie Laster, Megan Madsen, Jessie Ellis, MSW, LCSW, Allendre McGovern-Siembab, Marilyn Palmer PhD, MSSW, ACM-SW, Tamara Pruett, RN, CCM, Lisa Graham MSN, RN-BC, and James Waddell MSS, LSW, ACM. Their varied backgrounds and expertise in different areas of case management amplify the depth and breadth of knowledge contributing to the advancement of the field.
Conclusion: Shaping the Future of Case Management through Compass Learning
The collective expertise of this advisory board and contributors underscores a commitment to excellence and innovation in case management. Their diverse backgrounds and deep experience provide invaluable guidance, shaping the future of case management through the principles of compass learning. By drawing upon their insights, the field can continue to evolve, ensuring patient-centered, efficient, and effective care in an increasingly complex healthcare environment.
