Oftentimes, a successful surgery or hospital stay marks the start of the road to recovery. But for many seniors, that road is a rocky one. It is estimated that nearly 20% of seniors are readmitted to the hospital within 30 days of discharge. However, research indicates that transitional care, such as short-term rehab or skilled nursing, can help prevent rehospitalization. With this in mind, selecting the right transitional care provider can make a difference in your recovery and overall health outcomes.
Short-term rehab and skilled nursing are both forms of transitional care that provide assistance with activities of daily living (ADLs) and therapeutic services in an inpatient setting to help people recover from a medical event like surgery, stroke, or injury. Short-term rehab typically focuses on helping patients recover their independence through various therapies like physical therapy and speech therapy. Skilled nursing provides wound care, intravenous (IV) therapy, and other types of medical care for those with more acute needs.
Patients may be prescribed either short term rehab or skilled nursing – but many facilities offer both. This guide will walk you through the key factors to consider when choosing a facility that best fits your or your loved one’s unique situation.
Facility Credentials and Accreditation
When it comes to your health, you want to ensure you are in good hands. That is why it is crucial to verify that any facility you are considering is properly licensed and accredited. A great place to start your research is Medicare’s Care Compare tool. The State of Florida’s Agency for Health Care Administration also offers a variety of tools to help you find and compare facilities. You can use these tools and the information they provide to narrow down your choices.
Assessing Your Needs
As you search, it is essential to have a clear understanding of you or your loved one’s specific medical requirements. Do you need physical therapy to regain strength after a fall? Speech therapy following a stroke? Or perhaps specialized wound care after surgery? Each patient’s needs are unique, and the facility you choose should be equipped to address them effectively. Ideally, you will want to choose a facility that will get you back to maximum functionality as quickly as possible.
Facility Amenities
While medical care is paramount, the comfort and social aspects of a facility can play a significant role in a patient’s recovery. A positive environment can do wonders for your spirits as you work towards getting back on your feet.
Look into the activities and social engagement opportunities offered by the facility. Whether it is group exercise classes, music therapy, or simply spaces to gather and chat, these activities can bolster your mental wellbeing during your stay. Additionally, inquire about meal options.
Insurance and Costs
Understanding the financial aspects of your care can influence the facility you choose. The cost of care can vary widely between facilities, so it is important to get a clear picture of what to expect.
Medicare covers short-term rehab and skilled nursing services under certain conditions. Typically, Medicare will cover 100% of the costs for the first 20 days, and a portion of the costs for up to 100 days. However, you should check with your healthcare provider and ensure that your rehab or skilled nursing treatments qualify for coverage.
When considering a facility, check whether they accept Medicare, Medicaid, or your private insurance – and confirm whether your health insurance cover all of your expenses. If not, some facilities may offer payment plans or financial assistance options, so be sure to explore all avenues to make your stay as affordable as possible.
Touring the Facilities
While there is no substitute for seeing a facility in person, many facilities now offer virtual tour options to accommodate different situations and schedules. Whether you are able to visit in person or need to tour virtually, these firsthand looks can provide invaluable insights that you simply cannot get from a website or brochure.
During your tour (virtual or in-person), pay attention to the overall atmosphere. Are the staff members friendly and attentive? Do the current residents seem well-cared for and engaged? Note the cleanliness of the facility and how well it is maintained.
During your tour, do not be shy about asking lots of questions – the answers can give you a clearer picture of what your stay might look like. Some key questions to ask include:
- What is the typical schedule for therapy sessions? Understanding the therapy schedule can help you gauge the intensity and frequency of rehabilitation services, as well as set expectations about your recovery progress and daily routine.
- What is a typical day like for a patient? What activities or amenities are available? As we previously mentioned, engaging activities and comfortable amenities can significantly impact your quality of life during your stay.
- What is the staff-to-patient ratio? A good staff-to-patient ratio ensures that you will receive prompt and attentive care. It is an important indicator of the quality of care and the facility’s commitment to patient well-being.
- How does the facility handle emergencies? Understanding the facility’s emergency procedures is crucial for your safety and it tells you how prepared the facility is to handle unexpected medical situations.
- What is the visitation policy? Knowing the visitation policy helps you and your loved one’s plan for continued support during your stay. Regular visits can boost morale and aid in recovery.
- Can you accommodate any special dietary needs? If you have any allergies or nutritional requirements, you will to be sure that the facility can accommodate you.
- What items should be brought? What is provided on site? Understanding what to pack helps you prepare adequately for your stay. Knowing what is provided ensures you have all necessary items for comfort and care, without overpacking or bringing duplicate items.
Making Your Decision
The right facility can significantly impact your recovery journey. By focusing on your needs and priorities while comparing facilities, you can make an informed choice that supports your health and comfort, setting the stage for the best possible outcome in your recovery.
At Miami Jewish Health, we understand how critical short-term rehab and skilled nursing care can be for your recovery. Our experienced care teams – guided by board-certified, on-staff physicians and nurse practitioners – are dedicated to providing patient-centered, comprehensive care with round-the-clock assistance tailored to each patient’s unique medical needs. Our beautiful campus houses a 412-bed skilled nursing and rehabilitation facility that is the largest of its kind in Florida. With a wide range of services and specialized medical treatments, we ensure that every aspect of your health and comfort is prioritized. To learn more about how we can support your recovery journey, visit Miami Jewish Health Skilled Nursing.
