CATASTROPHIC CASE MANAGEMENT

(a) The commission shall develop and implement a catastrophic case management system to be used in providing medical assistance to persons with catastrophic health problems.

(b) The system must provide for the assignment of a case manager to a recipient of medical assistance with catastrophic health problems that are likely to:

(1) require the services of multiple, specialized health care providers; and

(2) result in major medical costs.

(c) The commission shall identify the services to be provided by a case manager assigned under the system. The services must include assessment of the recipient's needs and coordination of all available medical services and payment options. The services may include other support services such as:

(1) assistance with making arrangements to receive care from medical facilities;

(2) assistance with travel and lodging in connection with receipt of medical care;

(3) education of the recipient and the recipient's family members regarding the nature of the recipient's health problems;

(4) referral to appropriate support groups; and

(5) any other service likely to result in better care provided in a cost-effective manner.