National Case Management Week: Spotlighting Outstanding Case Managers

At Strata Health, we believe in the power of case managers and this National Case Management Week, we are thrilled to shine a spotlight on the individuals who have dedicated their careers to improving patient care and outcomes. Over the past few months, we had the privilege of sitting down with some remarkable case managers at regional ACMA (American Case Management Association) conferences across the country. Today, we’d like to introduce you to a few of them.

Meet Marilyn Baumann: Making a Difference at Anderson Hospital

Marilyn Baumann, MSN, RN, ACM-RN is a Case Manager who serves as the Utilization Review and ED Care Coordinator at Anderson Hospital. Her career started at a prominent teaching hospital in St. Louis as a dedicated bedside nurse. However, she soon realized that she could do more to help patients beyond immediate care. Transitioning into the role of a care coordinator, she combined her medical knowledge with problem-solving skills to ensure patients leave the hospital and experience the best possible outcomes.

Working closely with patients and their families, Marilyn’s dedication shines through in her commitment to bridging the gap between healthcare complexity and understanding. She recognizes that many individuals and families grapple with the intricacies of healthcare, insurance, and long-term care plans, especially during crisis situations.

“We can help identify those issues and support families in addressing them to meet their needs,” Marilyn emphasizes.

Jackie Dinterman: Leading the Way at Frederick Health Hospital

Jackie Dinterman, M.A., LBSW, ACM serves as the Director of Care Management at Frederick Health Hospital and has dedicated an impressive 37 years of her life to making a significant impact within her hospital.

“I always thought that I would work in healthcare,” Jackie reflects, “and then I started at the hospital, and I absolutely love working here. It’s something different every day.”

From her early days as a social work case manager to her current leadership role, Jackie has always been driven by a deep sense of empathy and a desire to anticipate and meet the unique needs of each patient. Over the years, she’s learned more about those needs through personal experiences and having loved ones in the hospital. This knowledge and compassion has allowed her to better serve patients and their families.

Nicole Pigg: Bridging the Gap at Phelps Health

Nicole Pigg, MA, CCM serves as an Epic Analyst providing IT support for Care and Case Management teams at Phelps Health. A true advocate for teamwork and collaboration, Nicole approaches her role with a fundamental goal: getting everyone on the same page. She believes that effective problem-solving begins with a deep understanding of each person’s perspective, listening to their experiences, both good and bad, and addressing their concerns.

From Nicole’s view, it’s the small things that can have a profound impact. She recalls instances where a simple compliment about a patient’s unique and vibrant shoes made all the difference. “Sometimes it’s the difference between one wrong decision,” she says, “that a patient or family member is going to make that makes a difference in their life.”

Nicole’s dedication to empathy and connection highlights the transformative power of a caring gesture, a listening ear, and the unity that comes from understanding one another’s experiences.

Connie Tinsley: Leading with Excellence at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital

Connie Tinsley, RN is the Case Management Regional Manager at HSHS St. Elizabeth’s Hospital. For Connie, the heart of her work lies in making a tangible difference for every patient. It’s about ensuring that patients receive the precise level of care and services they require. In a healthcare landscape brimming with diverse services, she emphasizes the importance of networking and diligently identifying each patient’s unique needs.

Connie underscores the significance of a comprehensive approach, one that involves bringing together the entire healthcare team, including nursing partners, providers, and external care partners. Their unity and alignment on patient needs are central to delivering the best possible care.

As Connie puts it, “It’s all about teamwork and good communication. I think that’s the biggest key.” Her words resonate as a testament to the transformative power of collaboration in healthcare, where the patient’s well-being remains at the forefront.

Marilyn, Jackie, Nicole, and Connie are shining examples of individuals who have dedicated their careers to making a real difference. As we reflect on the stories of these remarkable case managers, it’s evident that their commitment, empathy, and collaborative spirit resonate as beacons of hope in healthcare. They remind us that it’s not just about treating medical conditions; it’s about uplifting spirits and making a lasting difference in people’s lives. Thank you to all the case managers out there who tirelessly work to enhance patient care and inspire positive change. Your dedication is truly commendable, and we celebrate you not just during this week, but every day.

Join us in celebrating National Case Management Week by following Strata Health on LinkedIn! Throughout this special week, we’ll continue to spotlight remarkable case managers, share inspiring stories, and recognize the outstanding work they do to enhance patient care. Click that “Follow” button now, and let’s celebrate together!