By Dr. Samantha Walker, RN, DNP, CCM, FCM, FNP
Each October, the Case Management Society of America (CMSA) takes an opportunity to pause and reflect on the extraordinary contributions of case managers nationwide. This year, Case Management Week will be recognized during the week of October 12th – 18th and celebrated with the theme “Innovate. Advocate. Celebrate.” For me, this theme captures the very essence of what case managers do every single day—and why I am so proud to be part of this profession.
As a nurse and case manager with decades of experience, I have served and worked alongside some of the most dedicated professionals in the healthcare field. Case managers are instrumental in connecting patients, families, providers, and payers. Throughout my own journey, whether creating centralized managed care departments or advocating directly for seniors and their families, I have seen and experienced the profound impact that case managers make. We are more than coordinators of care—we are problem-solvers, educators, and advocates who ensure that no one falls through the cracks.
Innovate
Case managers are natural innovators and an essential part of today’s healthcare environment. I have been innovative by assisting organizations to renegotiate contracts, expand reimbursements, and maximize opportunities to sustain care delivery. However, innovation also comes in smaller, more personal ways, such as finding resources for a family in crisis, developing creative discharge plans, or using technology to simplify communication. Innovation is also about blending knowledge and compassion, developing solutions that make a difference in others’ lives.
Advocate
Advocacy is at the heart of case management. I have always been passionate about advocating for seniors and providers to ensure they receive the care and reimbursement they deserve.
Advocacy means being the voice for those who may not always have a voice—whether helping a patient or family navigate complex insurance rules, ensuring a family has access to resources, or working behind the scenes to create fair and sustainable healthcare systems. It is both deeply personal and broadly impactful. Case managers are tireless advocates for individuals and the future of health care.
Celebrate
This week, CMSA celebrates with case managers – YOU! The individuals who show up every day with resilience, dedication, and compassion. I know firsthand how challenging our work can be. I also understand its profound meaning. Every conversation, every barrier removed, every patient empowered—that is worth celebrating. And while we are honoring the profession, let’s also remember to celebrate ourselves. As professionals, we must care for ourselves so that we can continue to care for others.
A Personal Reflection
As President of the Central Indiana Chapter of the Case Management Society of America and Secretary for the national chapter, I have the privilege of witnessing how case managers support one another, share knowledge, and inspire change. This week reminds me of why I chose this path: to innovate where systems fall short, to advocate for those who need a voice, and to celebrate a profession that truly transforms lives.
A heartfelt thank you to my case management colleagues. Your work matters. Your impact is real. You deserve to be celebrated every week.
As we wrap up #CMWeek2025, we celebrate you and the future you’re helping to build. Thank you for advancing excellence in case management every single day. https://cmsa.org/about/national-cm-week/
Dr. Samantha (Sam) Walker is a seasoned healthcare executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in nursing operations, strategic planning, and business development. She holds multiple nursing degrees from Indiana State University, including a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP), and is currently pursuing her Family Nurse Practitioner certification. Named CMSA National Case Manager of the Year in 2023, Sam is also a Certified Case Manager and President of Managed Care Consultants, LLC. She has a proven track record of establishing successful centralized care departments and significant claims recovery at both state and national levels. Sam serves as the president of the Central Indiana chapter of CMSA and is a former national board member. Outside of her professional accomplishments, she enjoys spending time with her family, traveling, boating, and continuing her education.