By By Colleen Morley, DNP, RN, CCM, CMAC, CMCN, ACM-RN, FCM
Writing blogs for the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) has been a rewarding journey of self-discovery and professional growth. Over time, it has evolved from a way to share knowledge into a platform for advocacy, storytelling, and connecting with peers. The process of writing for CMSA has allowed me to reflect on my own experiences as a case manager while amplifying the collective voice of our profession.
The Catalyst: Why I Started Blogging
My journey into blogging began with a simple question: How can I share my experiences to empower others? As CMSA National President, blogging once a month is a requirement, so the question really was…how to keep up with the writing schedule and what to write about? I reflected that as case managers, we wear many hats—care coordinators, patient advocates, and often, problem-solvers navigating the complexities of healthcare. This multifaceted role is often misunderstood, even within the industry. Blogging for CMSA offered me a unique platform to highlight these realities, educate others, and showcase the invaluable impact case managers have on patient outcomes and the healthcare system as a whole.
One of my favorite blogs I worked on celebrated Case Management Week, which offered a chance to reflect on the importance of our work. Themes like "Case Managers...Powering the Future of Healthcare" underscored our evolving role and the strength of our community.
The Journey: Learning the Art of Blogging
Blogging doesn’t come naturally to everyone—it certainly didn’t for me at first. Translating professional expertise, personal stories and topics I was interested in learning about and discussing with you into concise, engaging, and reader-friendly content required serious focus. Over time, I developed a strategy that has served me well:
- Focus on Relatable Topics:
Whether it’s exploring professional boundaries, diving into technology’s impact on case management, or dissecting concepts like health literacy, I’ve found that the best blogs tackle challenges that resonate deeply with potential readers.
- Incorporate Real-Life Stories:
Reflecting on why I became a case manager, for instance, gave me a chance to share personal anecdotes about navigating healthcare complexity as both a sibling and parent of patients with significant health challenges. Adding the story of my husband’s personal experience with AML and the gaps we encountered in his journey drew attention to the work that still needs to be done in our profession. These stories humanize the profession and create a stronger connection with readers.
- Use Evidence to Build Credibility:
Blogs are an excellent way to introduce case managers to new ideas or reinforce best practices. For example, my blog on Health Literacy Month not only highlighted strategies to empower patients but also drew on data to emphasize the importance of clear communication in improving outcomes.
- End With a Call to Action:
Every blog aims to leave readers with something actionable—whether it’s advocating for policy change, improving care transitions, or simply engaging with CMSA resources.
Insights Gained Along the Way
Through blogging, I’ve realized the immense power of storytelling in professional advocacy. A blog I wrote about mentoring versus precepting sparked meaningful conversations among peers about how we can support the next generation of case managers. Similarly, my reflections on patient communication strategies highlighted how small changes can lead to big improvements in satisfaction and outcomes.
Additionally, writing about the intersection of case management and population health reinforced the need to align our daily practices with broader healthcare trends, such as addressing social determinants of health (while also poking at the silos in healthcare).
Why Blogging for CMSA Matters
For me, blogging is a way to give back to the profession that has given me so much. It’s a space to amplify voices, validate shared struggles, and celebrate victories. Blogging also fosters community. Through the feedback I’ve received—whether from a colleague who shared their story after reading mine or a new case manager who felt inspired—I’ve seen how our words can create meaningful connections.
Join us at CMSA’s Annual Conference in Dallas, Texas on pre-conference day for our Writer’s Workshop! Whether you’re a seasoned author or just starting out, this session will equip you with the skills and insights to share your expertise through writing. Don’t miss this opportunity to enhance your craft, connect with industry peers, and contribute to the field. Reserve your spot today! https://cmsa.societyconference.com/v2/
Bio: Dr. Colleen Morley, DNP, RN, CCM, CMAC, CMCN, CMGT BC, ACM-RN, IQCI, FCM, FAACM is the Associate Chief Clinical Operations Officer, Care Continuum for University of Illinois Health System and the current Immediate Past President of the Case Management Society of America National Board of Directors and President Elect of CMSA Chicago. She has held positions in acute care as Director of Case Management at several acute care facilities and managed care entities in Illinois, overseeing Utilization Review, Case Management and Social Services for over 14 years; piloting quality improvement initiatives focused on readmission reduction, care coordination through better communication and population health management. Her current passion is in the area of improving health literacy. She is the recipient of the CMSA Foundation Practice Improvement Award (2020) and ANA Illinois Practice Improvement Award (2020) for her work in this area. Dr. Morley also received the AAMCN Managed Care Nurse Leader of the Year in 2010 and the CMSA Fellow of Case Management designation in 2022. Her 1st book, “A Practical Guide to Acute Care Case Management”, published by Blue Bayou Press was released in February, 2022. Her 2nd book, "Practical Gude to Hospital Readmission Reduction =, published by Blue Bayou Press was released in February 2024. Her 3rd book, "Practocal Guid eto Acute care Case Management Leadership" is in the works, targeting publication in 2025. Dr. Morley celebrates 25 years of nursing experience and 20 years in case management in 2024. Her clinical specialties include Med/Surg, Oncology and Pediatric Nursing. She received her ADN at South Suburban College in South Holland, IL; BSN at Jacksonville University in Jacksonville, FL, MSN from Norwich University in Northfield, VT and her DNP at Chamberlain College of Nursing.