By Cynthia Hopkins, RN, MBA/HCM, ACM-RN, CCM
My journey into case management began while I was working as a nurse manager; I vividly remember the CNO and CEO frequently talking about grooming me to become the CNO. However, I was trying to get out of this management role because I had my eye on a case management position.
As I observed the case managers, I thought, "This looks like a job where you can leave work on time." At the time, I had young children and a spouse, and I was struggling to find a balance. I was constantly at work, trying to cover the night shift and ensure everything ran smoothly, but it left little time for my family.
One day, after a leadership meeting, I approached the case management director and asked if he could train me to become a case manager. He immediately said yes, and the rest is history.
I found my niche in case management. It gave me the flexibility to raise my children and allowed me to continue my calling as a nurse—just in a different capacity. I could still work with patients, but now I was helping them in a broader, more holistic way.
It was around this time I discovered the CMSA. Joining CMSA became a pivotal moment in my career. Through CMSA, I gained access to a wealth of resources, education, and professional development opportunities that helped me deepen my understanding of the case management profession. The conferences, workshops and networking events exposed me to best practices and new trends I applied daily. CMSA provided a strong foundation for me as I transitioned into my new role.
Over the years, CMSA has played an integral part in shaping my approach to case management. The organization's commitment to advancing the profession gave me the confidence to continue growing. I have also been fortunate to meet and collaborate with other case managers through CMSA's vast network, allowing me to learn about their experiences and expertise. The sense of community and shared mission within CMSA have been invaluable, and they have reinforced my belief in the importance of patient advocacy and holistic care.
My involvement with CMSA continued to evolve as I took on leadership roles, I became President of my local CMSA chapter, where I had the privilege to shape the direction of our chapter and support local case managers. Currently, I also serve on the board with CMSA national, allowing me to contribute the broader initiatives that support case managers across the country. These leadership opportunities have enriched my understanding of the profession and its future direction, while also allowing me to give back to a community that has given so much.
I'm incredibly grateful for the opportunity I had to transition into case management over 20 years ago. Since then, I've seen the profession grow and evolve, thanks in part to CMSA. Case Management has become a well-respected field, and hospitals now recognize its value in ensuring continuity of care, supporting patients through complex transitions, and optimizing healthcare resources.
Throughout my career, I've worked in various roles within case management, developing strong relationships with vendors and community resources. These partnerships have been crucial in helping patients during some of the most challenging times of their lives. I credit CMSA with helping me develop these connections by providing continuous opportunities for professional growth.
Looking back, I couldn't be more thankful for the decision I made to transition to case management and for the support I received from CMSA along the way. Case Management has not only allowed me to balance my career with my family life, but it has also enabled me to make a meaningful impact on patients' lives. I am proud to be part of such a vital profession and to contribute to is ongoing advancement through my involvement with CMSA.
Case Management Week may be coming to a close, but we’re celebrating all month long! Register for our two remaining October webinars at 
https://cmsa.org/about/national-cm-week/
Bio: Cynthia Hopkins RN MBA/HCM ACM-RN CCM is a healthcare leader with over 30 years’ experience. That experience spans into public health, acute care, clinic, and case management. Cynthia possesses a wealth of knowledge in case management, utilization management, and transition of care. She previously served on the Program and Service Committee-task force with CCMC, with the task of item writing, items review for the CCM exam, she also served as Board member with ACMA Houston Chapter and is currently the President, CMSA Houston Chapter. In her free time, she enjoys traveling, gardening, and spending time with her husband and grandchildren.