When a person undergoes a medical procedure or has been hospitalized, they may need additional care support before returning home. Transitional care, also referred to as the “swing bed” approach, is a good option for these individuals.
Angela Bakken, Registered Nurse and Nurse Case Manager with Stoughton Health, explains what this service involves and who may benefit.
Why Choose Stoughton Health for Transitional Care?
Bakken notes that common examples of types of swing bed transitional care admissions are the need to have physical therapy and occupational therapy, speech therapy, IV antibiotics that require administration more than once a day, and complex wound care. Research has shown that patients who go through transitional care tend to recover quicker than those who don’t.
In terms of benefits, Bakken outlines ones specific to Stoughton Health:
- 24 hours access to medical care (if need be)
- Team of caregivers that establish goals for recovery and a safe return home (doctors, nurses, rehabilitation specialists, pharmacy, social work, dietician)
- Gift shop
- Free valet parking Monday-Friday
- Unrestricted visiting hours
- Private rooms with cable TV/Wi-Fi (and guest Wi-Fi)
- Chef-prepared meals, ordered from a daily menu (visitors may order for a nominal fee)
- Pets are welcome
All of these elements combine to provide patients the solid foundation for returning home, assured that they can manage the home environment. Bakken also explains the importance of having both short- and long-term goals—which offers a truly comprehensive approach to recovery.
“Typically, the nursing staff will encourage the patient to do as much as they can for themselves to improve their strength, endurance, and independence while they’re in swing bed. It is essential for them to regain their level of activity and the confidence they need to go back home,” she states.
Insurance Considerations
In terms of insurance, Bakken says that Medicare will cover 20 days at 100%. However, that doesn’t mean a person needs a full 20 days. If they are improving and are able to go home on day 10, they will be discharged with a home-safe plan in place (e.g. home health, outpatient therapy).
“If you are not making any progress, your care team would also come up with a safe discharge plan as Medicare will discontinue when you no longer meet criteria for a skilled need. So, you have to be willing to participate, making some progress for Medicare to pay. If you aren’t making progress, then of course we would come up with a safe discharge plan for you. Stoughton Hospital and Medicare want you to have a safe discharge. We aren’t just going to kick you out on the street,” she assures. “We have to make sure you’re going to go wherever you need to go to be safe.”
Anyone who is interested in learning more about transitional care can speak with their social worker and request Stoughton Health. The social worker will take care of the referral; the patient does not need to do anything. Individuals can also phone the case management line at 608-873-2217 to request more information.
