Collaborations in Leadership

Abstract

Purpose/Objectives With a multiple decade's long surge in managed care and the growth of case management as a profession, there is increasing recognition of the leadership role that case managers employ daily as they coordinate and facilitate patient-centered initiatives. Now, more than ever, case managers are being called upon to further expand their leadership capabilities and take a more active role in professional partnering to ensure the continued attainment of clinical, fiscal, and quality outcomes. Primary Practice Settings All settings, particularly acute care hospitals and integrated delivery systems. Implications for Case Management Practice The collaboration between nurse case managers and nursing administration provides a framework for the establishment of a collegial and supportive working relationship: one that is built on the strength of mutual goals, shared leadership abilities, respect, and professional loyalty. Case managers use their leadership ability to advance and support patient-centered care delivery by promoting continuity of care, enhancing communication, and integrating the goals of patient care. The utilization of formal and informal leadership strategies provides opportunities for case managers to positively impact the vision and values of the organizations they serve. Professional nursing partnerships provide opportunities to actively support, develop, coach, and mentor the larger nursing community.