CDMS in Washington

Reviewed by KW Life Care Planning Editorial Team

Certified Disability Management Specialist (CDMS) is a national certification, not a Washington license. How a Washington court weighs it is decided case by case under the forum's expert rules; this page covers the credential's scope, the Washington venues where a plan is examined, and our planners who hold it and serve Washington.

How the credential is weighed in Washington

The CDMS certifies professionals in disability management: coordinating medical care, benefits, and return-to-work planning for injured workers within workers' compensation and disability systems. In life care planning the credential is relevant to workers' compensation plans, where the planner must understand fee schedules, claims administration, and how future care interacts with the benefit system.

Washington civil claims are tried in the Superior Courts. Workers' compensation is provided through the state fund administered by the Department of Labor and Industries, with contested decisions heard by the Board of Industrial Insurance Appeals.

Outside the civil courts, the Washington Department of Labor and Industries is the forum where a plan is most often examined in Washington. KW Life Care Planning CDMS-credentialed experts apply nationally recognized standards while accounting for Washington's practice environment.

Washington courts and venues

CDMS-credentialed experts provide testimony in Washington's courts, where expert qualification is determined case by case.

Highest court: Washington Supreme Court. Federal venues: W.D. Wash., E.D. Wash..

Source: Washington judiciary (courts.wa.gov)

CDMS experts for Washington matters

KW Life Care Planning provides CDMS-credentialed life care planners for Washington cases, including remote consultation and on-site evaluation where required. Contact us to discuss availability for your matter.

Other credentials in Washington

Frequently Asked Questions

How does the CDMS relate to life care planning?

It documents expertise in the workers' compensation and disability benefit environment. A planner who holds it understands how the plan's items will be paid, disputed, and settled within that system.

Is the CDMS a counseling credential?

No. It certifies disability management practice, which is a coordination and planning role. Counseling credentials such as the CRC are separate, though some professionals hold both.

References

  1. CRCC - CDMS Certification

Ready to Get Started on Washington matters?

Contact our team to discuss how KW Life Care Planning can support your case with certified life care planning expertise. Request a Consultation or call (201) 343-0700.