As the firstborn in an immigrant family, I often translated health care complexities, sparking my desire to help others. After earning a degree in Human Biology from UC Santa Cruz, I explored health care roles, including optician and pharmacy technician. These experiences fueled my passion for direct patient care and educating individuals on making informed health choices. This led me to pursue an Entry Level Master of Science in Nursing with a focus on Case Management at Samuel Merritt University, where I gained the skills and confidence to enter the nursing profession.
Since graduating in 2014, I’ve managed complex cases for adult and geriatric populations. I assess patient needs, create care plans, and collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to ensure safe, coordinated transitions. Whether facilitating ICU discharges or coordinating preventive care, I focus on providing holistic, patient-centered care that improves outcomes for individuals with chronic conditions.
Earning my Case Management Certification (CCM) this year was a milestone that reinforced my dedication to this role. It expanded my knowledge in quality, regulatory processes, and utilization management, while refining my skills in discharge planning—key to guiding patients through a seamless health care journey. This experience highlighted the importance of adaptability and continuous growth. I encourage other nurses to pursue certification as it reflects a commitment to lifelong learning and ensures patients receive the support they need throughout their care. Becoming certified is not just a credential; it represents my ongoing dedication to improving patient outcomes and care delivery.
— Tiffanie Wong-Lee, MSN, RN, CCM