Our History

The Case Management Society of America is an international, non-profit organization founded in 1990 dedicated to the support and development of the profession of case management through educational forums, networking opportunities and legislative involvement. Unique in its composition as an international organization, over 70 affiliated and prospective chapters in a tiered democratic structure, CMSA’s success and strength is its structure as a member-driven society.

CMSA’s emergence as a prominent national organization is in large part due to its unique and involved membership. Innovation is used to continually mentor new leaders for national positions. CMSA has developed a leadership ladder, whereby local leaders progress in their scope of responsibility through appointed national committee positions or elected director/officer positions. To enhance this process, the society provides ongoing leadership training seminars geared for the local leaders.

In nationally recognized innovation, CMSA developed the nationally recognized Standards of Practice for Case Management. This publication was officially released in early 1995, and is a forerunner in establishing formal, written standards of practice from a variety of disciplines. During that same year, the National Board approved a peer-reviewed Ethics Statement on Case Management Practice, a base foundation from which to apply ethical principles to the practice of case management. The Standards of Practice and Ethics Statement are both available from CMSA National.

In response to payer and purchaser expectations for demonstrating value in the marketplace, CMSA created the Council for Case Management Accountability. This new division of CMSA will establish evidence-based standards of practice and help its members achieve those standards through the measurement, evaluation and reporting of outcomes.

Education, research, and networking continue to be top priorities sought by CMSA’s members. Proactive measures from grassroots lobbying to national briefings have been at the forefront of CMSA legislative activity. Government Affairs committees are currently active in most of the local and state chapters across the country.

Through the support of a certification program, CMSA continues to enhance the level of case manager professionalism - furthering the development of a new, higher level of industry expertise. For more information, please contact the Commission for Case Manager Certification at (847) 818-0292. CCMC is a separate entity and is independent from CMSA.

Ultimately, the quality and productivity of CMSA’s services rely upon the commitment of its membership. Because case managers are effective communicators, problem solvers, and visionaries, CMSA offers an opportunity for members to utilize their skill sets and maximize their talents. The enormous success of the organization lies in one simple concept - professional leadership.