Case management nurse

A case management nurse creates and coordinates long-term care plans for patients to help them be as healthy as possible.

Required education

ADN or BSN

Average annual salary

$83,000

Payscale.com (Jan. 2026)

Varied

Take on different tasks, patients, and situations every day.

Managerial

Oversee other nurses and help improve healthcare for all.

Research-oriented

Analyze data and discover new ways to help patients.

Patient-facing

Work hands-on, directly with patients.

Structured

Follow a routine that allows you to anticipate and prepare for every situation.

Independent

Work on your own or even start your own practice, in some states.

What is the role of a case management nurse?

You’ll work closely with patients for the duration of their treatment, building long-lasting relationships that are highly rewarding.

What you’ll do as a case management nurse

Education

You’ll schedule doctor’s appointments and surgeries, and work with insurance companies to develop the most cost-effective strategies.

Management

You’ll schedule doctor’s appointments and surgeries, and work with insurance companies to develop the most cost-effective strategies.

Research

You’ll stay up to date with the latest treatments.

Treatment

You’ll develop, monitor and adjust treatment plans to ensure patients are always receiving the most effective care.

two nurses in discussion at nurses' station

Where you’ll work as a case management nurses

Case management nurses work in a variety of settings, including:

Hospitals
Private practices
Rehabilitation clinics

How to become a case management nurse

Get an Associate’s Degree in Nursing (ADN) or Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN).

When considering a future nursing career, it’s important to explore the different nursing programs available and the paths they offer. With various options like associate degree programs, bachelor’s degree programs, and direct-entry master’s degree programs, prospective students can choose the educational path that best suits their goals and interests.

Pass the NCLEX-RN and work as a Registered Nurse.

The National Council Licensure Exam (NCLEX) is the all-important step between graduating from nursing school and becoming a nurse. It’s a standardized test, set by the Board of Nursing in each state, that makes sure you have the knowledge and skills you need to work in the field of nursing.

Work as a Registered Nurse, gaining at least 2,000 hours of experience in case management.

Get your Case Management Nurse Certification from the American Nurses Credentialing Center.

Complete 30 hours of continuing education in case management.

You’re ready to work as a case management nurse!