How to choose a skilled nursing or rehabilitation facility
While the facility's location is an important factor, keep in that there are many considerations when choosing a healthcare facility. Here are some main points to examine:
> The nursing home is Medicare- and Medicaid-certified.
> The facility has the level of care you need
(e.g. skilled, custodial), and a bed is available.
> Does the facility offer physical, occupational,
speech and respiratory therapy?
> How many days a week is therapy offered?
> Does the facility offer a unit where specialized
services take place?
> What types of illnesses has the facility treated?
> Does the facility have 24-hour RN coverage?
> What is the average length of stay for the facility’s
patients?
> How frequently do physicians see patients?
> The facility appears clean, well-kept and is odor-free.
> Residents are clean, appropriately dressed for the
season or time of day, and well-groomed.
> Staff members are warm, polite, and respectful.
> Does the facility offer a wide range of activities
and social events?
> Is the facility located close enough for friends
and family to visit?
> Is there a full-time social worker on staff?
> Do residents have access to a private telephone?
> There are quiet areas where residents can visit
with friends and family.
> Nutritious snacks are available upon request.
> The nursing home has outdoor areas for resident
use and the staff will help residents go outside.
> Residents get preventive care, like a yearly flu shot,
to help keep them healthy.
> Thefacility has an arrangement with a nearby
hospital for emergencies.
> How does the facility plan for the patient’s
treatment and ultimate discharge to home?
Would you like a print-ready list of factors?
