Once you’ve received acute care in a hospital, what’s next?
You may be eager to return to the comfort of your home, but you might not be ready to manage your healthcare needs independently. You may require additional medical support before making a safe, smooth transition back into your daily life.
Proper post-acute care is essential to improving long-term healing and reducing the risk of hospital readmission. For many people, recovering in a swing bed is the best option because it gives them access to vital healthcare resources while regaining their strength, independence, and confidence. But there are other options for recovery.
Learn more about swing beds, other post-acute care options, and how to determine which is right for your path to recovery.
What Is a Swing Bed Program?
A swing bed program is an approach to hospital care in which specific rooms are provided for patients to “swing” between acute care and skilled nursing services without needing to be transferred to another area or facility.
Imagine you’ve been in the hospital receiving intensive care. At some point, you’ll no longer need intensive care, but you might also not be ready to go home. You might need some ongoing medical support or rehabilitation care. With a swing bed program, you can stay in the same place, and skilled nurses and therapists can assist you in your recovery.
One of the significant benefits of a swing bed program is the continuity of care. In most cases, you can stay in the same room and work with many of the same healthcare professionals who cared for you during your hospital stay. That can make your recovery less stressful and keep you closer to home.
Understanding Your Other Post-Acute Care Options
Swing bed programs aren’t your only post-acute care recovery option. Here are some other common options available:
Skilled Nursing Facilities
Skilled nursing facilities provide 24-hour medical care from licensed nurses and therapists. They can assist with daily activities like bathing, dressing, and medication management. They are a good option for individuals who require more extensive medical support or rehabilitation following hospitalization.
In-Patient Rehabilitation Facility
Inpatient rehabilitation facilities specialize in providing intensive therapy services to help patients recover after an injury, illness, or surgery. These facilities may have physical, occupational, and speech therapy programs. They may be a good option for patients who need intensive rehabilitation before they can live independently at home.
Home Care
Home care allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home while receiving professional medical care and assistance. Home health nurses can provide skilled nursing services like wound care, medication management, and physical therapy. Home health aids can assist with bathing, dressing, and meal preparation. This might be a suitable option for patients who can be mostly independent but require a little more ongoing support at home.
Which Post-Acute Care Option Is Right for You?
The best post-acute care option for your situation will depend on several factors, including:
- The severity of your medical condition
- What your recovery needs are
- Your ability to perform daily living activities
- How much support you have at home
- Your ability to make it to follow-up appointments
- Your medical coverage
- Your personal preferences
Before you leave acute care, your doctor will discuss your recovery options. They will assess your needs and recommend the choice they believe is best for you.
Let EARH Help You Make the Transition From Hospital to Home
You don’t have to navigate your post-acute care options alone. East Adams Rural Healthcare is here to guide you. Our medical team will work with you and your loved ones to assess your needs and connect you to resources like our swing bed program, rehabilitation services, or outpatient nursing care.
Whatever you need, we’re here to partner with you on your path to a successful recovery. Contact us to learn more about our services, and let us help you get back home.
