Complex cases are where Nicole Monaghan, RN-BSN, CCM/ACM, thrives. As utilization and clinical practice advisor for Memorial Healthcare System, she combines clinical knowledge, problem-solving, advocacy and communication to help patients and families navigate what comes next.
Medical needs, insurance, transportation, housing or caregiver concerns can stand in the way of a safe transition. “You can’t always stop when the first option doesn’t work,” Monaghan said. “Sometimes you have to make another phone call, ask a different question, look at the situation differently or bring someone else into the conversation.”
Monaghan finds it especially rewarding when a case that initially seemed impossible comes together. She also helps other case managers grow as proactive critical thinkers and problem-solvers, encouraging them to look beyond discharge planning and anticipate patients’ needs.
Ultimately, Monaghan wants patients and families to feel they have someone in their corner, helping connect the pieces and move them forward.
