What to Look for When Searching for a Short-Term Senior Rehab Center
When you or a loved one requires short-term rehabilitation after a hospital stay, finding the ideal center can be a challenging and time-consuming process. Selecting the right senior rehab facility is crucial to ensuring the best possible care and support during the recovery period. To help in making an informed choice, consider asking the following questions:
Availability of Openings and Anticipated Discharges: Inquire about the facility’s current availability for new patients and ask about anticipated discharges in the near future. This will give you insight into the center’s capacity and when the rehabilitation program may begin.
Insurance Coverage and Preapproval Process: Confirm that your insurance is accepted at the facility and learn about the steps required for coverage preapproval. The admissions staff should assist in determining if they are in-network for your insurance plan or help you find out.
Staff Specialization: Inquire about the staff’s proficiencies, particularly in areas like wound care and orthopedic treatment, which are generally considered standard aspects of care. Additionally, verify the facility’s accreditation from well-regarded organizations such as The Joint Commission (TJC) and the Accreditation Commission for Health Care (ACHC), among others, to ensure the facility adheres to established healthcare standards.
Therapy Sessions and Patient Care: Inquire about the amount of therapy patients typically receive. While frequency and duration will, of course, vary based on individual care plans, you may wish to ask to get a general sense.
Staff-to-Patient Ratio: Learn about the staff-to-patient ratio on each shift, including the number of Registered Nurses, Licensed Practical Nurses, and Certified Nursing Assistants compared to the patient capacity. A lower ratio often indicates more personalized care.
Treatment Team Members: Find out about the other professionals involved in the recovery process besides the nursing team. Will there be a physiatrist, respiratory therapist, or wound care team available to assist in the rehabilitation care plan?
Essential Items and Amenities: Check which items should be brought from home and what amenities the facility provides. For instance, the center may suggest bringing sturdy shoes and layered clothing options, among other things.
Involvement of Family in Care Planning: Inquire about dates and times for regularly scheduled care planning meetings. Involving loved ones in the care-planning process is important for effective rehabilitation.
Outpatient Therapy and Post-Rehab Services: Find out if the facility offers outpatient therapy and inquire about their process for setting up in-home services if needed after the short-term rehab stay is complete. Understanding these options will help you plan for life after rehabilitation.
Choosing the right short-term senior rehab center requires thorough research and careful consideration. By asking the above questions and assessing the facility’s capabilities, you can ensure that you or your loved one receives the care and support needed for a successful recovery. Always take the time to visit the facility, meet the staff, and get a sense of the environment to make the most informed decision.
We’re here to help. We welcome the opportunity to provide you with information about Mary Ann Morse Outpatient & Short-Term Inpatient Rehabilitation Services or answer any questions. Contact us at 508-433-4400 and outpatient@maryannmorse.org, or visit us at Short-Term Rehabilitation | Mary Ann Morse Healthcare Center.
