We perform several functions, and the term Case Management describes the various services that we offer. First, we review the charts of every patient that spends at least one night in the hospital in order that we may correspond with the insurance companies regarding the level of care received in the hospital and services used during that stay.  Another major task we carry out is Discharge Planning; that is, we make arrangements for continued health care services that patients may need upon discharge from the hospital.  Examples include rehab or skilled nursing facility placement, home health and hospice services, and durable medical equipment to be used at home.  Many of our patients are from out of town, and we can assist them with issues related to their transportation needs.  All of our services are coordinated through the patient’s physician and nursing staff, and we work closely with the Vail Valley Medical Center Social Services department.

Frequently Asked Questions

I am having major surgery and feel that I will need help when it’s time for me to go home from the hospital.  What services are available?
Depending upon your condition, care needs, and the location of your home, examples of assistance that may be available to you are Home Health/Hospice services, Inpatient Rehabilitation, or Skilled Nursing Facility services.  Not all patients will meet the requirements for this type of help.  The Case Management department will contact your insurance carrier to determine if you have benefits to help pay for these services.

What if I don’t have any type of insurance coverage?
The Case Management department collaborates with the Admissions and Social Services departments to provide options for self-pay patients.

I sustained an unexpected illness/injury while visiting your area, and I won’t be able to make my flight home?  What can I do?
Some airlines are easier to work with than others.  While we cannot predict what each airline’s policy is regarding a particular flight, we can provide the patient with a letter informing the airline of the reason why the patient has to change his/her travel plans.  Due to airport security reasons, the patient or a family member will have to make the actual changes to the itinerary by calling the airline directly.  We can assist with getting wheelchair transportation or medical oxygen, depending upon airline polices.

Contact Information

The Case Management office is located on the second floor of the Vail Valley Medical Center, next to the Patient Care Unit West (PCU-1) nurse’s station.