MOUNT LAUREL, N.J., April 26, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Commission for Case Manager Certification's prestigious board-certified CCM® designation is now within closer reach for thousands of professionals who have served in the military or reserves, as well as their dependents. Payment for CCMC's certification exam has been approved by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) as reimbursable under the GI Bill for licensing and certification.

"VA recognition demonstrates the CCM's value as a marker for high quality, safe, efficient and effective case managers," said Patrice V. Sminkey, RN, the Commission's chief staff executive. "Earning the CCM is a major step in professional development for case managers and opens the door for advancement opportunities. It is appropriate that our men and women who have served in the military may now receive reimbursement for taking the exam that will help them advance their careers and better serve patients."

The CCM is also an approved certification for the Magnet Recognition Program.  The Magnet Recognition Program recognizes health care organizations that provide nursing excellence.  Recognition of the CCM aids facilities in achieving Magnet status.  "The CCM is broadly recognized among employers, and earning the CCM positions the board-certified case manager for distinction in a variety of settings," Sminkey said.

The Commission is the oldest and largest nationally accredited organization that certifies case managers.  As case management takes center stage in advanced primary care models of health care delivery, professional case managers who have obtained certification will be more in demand than ever. Mastery of the CCM exam demonstrates that the board-certified case manager possesses the education, skills, knowledge and experience required to render appropriate services, delivered according to sound principles of practice.

Models of care such as the patient-centered medical home and accountable care organizations emphasize core activities of the case manager such as care coordination. These models align with CCMC's philosophy that everyone benefits when clients reach their optimum level of wellness, self-management, and functional capability: the clients being served; their support systems; the health care delivery systems; and the various payer sources. Case managers play a critical role in ensuring coordinated care in the new team-based health care models.

The VA's approval of the CCM certification exam means that veterans, reservists and their dependents who are case managers are eligible for reimbursement for the cost of the exam under the GI Bill, a $325 value. The CCM is available to case managers who serve in a variety of settings such as hospitals, managed care organizations and in independent practice, and with a range of professional licensure, including nursing, social work and vocational rehabilitation. More information about VA reimbursement of the CCM credential is available by clicking here.

About the Commission for Case Manager Certification

The Commission for Case Manager Certification is the first and largest nationally accredited organization that certifies case managers. The Commission is a nonprofit, volunteer organization that oversees the process of case manager certification with its CCM® credential. The Commission is positioned as the most active and prestigious certification organization supporting the practice of case management. For more information, visit www.ccmcertification.org, connect with CCMC on Facebook or follow us on Twitter @CCM_Cert.

SOURCE Commission for Case Manager Certification