When your treatment team talks about discharge, it means your doctor feels that you are able to move forward to the next level of care.
If a stay at an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital is being suggested for you, you and your loved ones may have some questions about that transition. Here is some information that may help.
FAQ about transitioning to an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital
Why should I go to an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital?
Following your initial recovery from illness or injury, you may need additional help to regain your strength and function. An acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital is a highly specialized hospital that offers inpatient therapy services for a variety of illnesses and conditions. These services are delivered by a multidisciplinary team. Working together, this team creates a customized treatment plan that will give you the best chance for a full recovery. You will receive a minimum of three hours of intensive therapy at least five days per week. This type of focused, highly personalized care can make a difference in how quickly you return to your life following an injury or illness.
How will I choose an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital?
You have the right to be informed about all of the options available to you and the freedom to choose the rehabilitation facility that you feel best meets your needs. Your doctor or care manager may recommend that you receive care at an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital such as Bryn Mawr Rehab Hospital. The goal of the acute hospital and the rehabilitation hospital is to have a smooth and positive transition from your acute care hospital to the next level of care. You are encouraged to speak with the admissions department or their liaisons directly to answer any questions you may have or, when possible, to take a tour.
How will this be different from my hospital stay?
A stay at an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital is very different than a stay in a regular (acute) hospital, where you spend your time recovering in your room. Recovery at an acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital is an active process. Your rehabilitation program focuses on therapy and includes exercise and mobility training outside of your room each day. You will wear your own clothing and it is important for you to wear comfortable items such as sweat suits and exercise clothes for freedom of movement.
Who will treat me at the acute inpatient rehabilitation hospital?
During your stay, you will be assigned a personal rehab team that will provide expert care and ongoing support. Your team will typically include:
- Doctors board certified in rehabilitation and internal medicine
- Certified Rehabilitation Registered Nurses
- Physical and occupational therapists
- Speech and recreational therapists (as appropriate)
- A care manager
- A psychologist (as appropriate)
- A dietitian (as appropriate)
When will I begin therapy?
You will begin therapy within 24 hours of your arrival. In general, you will have a minimum of three hours of therapy at least five days per week. Throughout your stay, your team will meet regularly to discuss your progress, goals and treatment plan as well as any medical or dietary concerns that pertain to your care.
How long will I need to stay?
Your rehabilitation team will meet and estimate your length of stay after you arrive at the hospital. This estimation is based on other patients with a diagnosis similar to yours and the evaluations performed by the team caring for you. This is only an estimate and may change based on your progress. Your Care Manager will keep you or your family informed of changes to your length of stay based on your individual situation.
Will my insurance cover this?
Medicare as well as most commercial insurers will provide coverage for your rehabilitation as long as it is determined to be medically necessary and appropriate for your condition, and as long as you continue to make progress toward your goals. Prior to your admission to the rehab hospital, the staff will work with your insurance provider to secure any required authorizations.
Will I have a private room?
Room assignments are based upon medical and equipment needs, infection control issues and roommate compatibility. Although staff will make every attempt to ensure your comfort and privacy, private rooms cannot be guaranteed.
Will my family be involved with my care plan?
Your loved ones are encouraged to help you with your discharge planning decisions. As patients are preparing to be discharged, family members are trained to make the adjustment to home living. You have treatment teams at both the acute hospital and the rehabilitation hospital that can provide information that may help.