31 Case Management Case management is a service that assists covered individuals with treatment needs that extend beyond the acute care setting. The goal of case management is to ensure that patients receive appropriate care in the most effective setting possible; whether at home, as an outpatient, or as an Inpatient in a h ospital. If there is a need for case management, a case management professional will work closely with the patient, the family members, and the attending physician to determine appropriate treatment options that would best meet the patient’s needs, while m aintaining manageable costs to the Plan. Case managers will help coordinate the treatment program and arrange for the necessary resources. In addition, case managers will answer questions and provide ongoing support for the family members during a medical crisis. While case managers, who are trained Registered Nurses and other credentialed health care professionals, may recommend alternate treatment programs and coordinate resources, your attending physician remains in charge of, and responsible for, your a ctual medical care. Participation in case management program is recommended for patients who need post - hospitalization services, or who have difficulty in managing or dealing with a costly illness. Cigna, may on occasion, contact you or your attending phys ician if they believe that case management might be helpful in your case. However, it is important to remember that participation in the case management program is voluntary. You should discuss the option of the case management with your attending physicia n, and contact Cigna for more information. You, your Spouse, your Eligible Dependent Child, and/or your attending physician may request case management services by calling Cigna at the toll - free number on your identification card, 800 - 244 - 6224 or 800 - Cigna 24.