If your loved one needs transitional rehabilitative care, it's wise to visit some recommended facilities before the patient is transferred. Bring along a list of detailed questions. Here are some to get you started:

• What services are available? Which will be provided?
• Who will be part of the care team — a physical therapist, speech pathologist, case manager, physician?
• What percentage of patients are sent home after receiving care? How many go to a nursing home or long-term care facility?
• What percentage of patients are readmitted to a hospital within 15 days of being discharged from your program?
• What are the qualifications of your staff? Is the facility accredited by a major accrediting body such as The Joint Commission (formerly the JCAHO) or the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities?
• What is the average length of stay for people with the same condition as this patient?
• How many hours of therapy a day will there be?
• How is progress measured?
• How often does a physician check in with patients? Can the patient's primary care physician visit the facility?
• What is the patient-to-staff ratio?
• Will the patient be in a private room or a shared room?
• Will the patient receive rehab treatment individually or in a group?
• What items — such as toiletries, hearing aids, clothing, and a small amount of money — should the patient bring to the facility? Are personal items such as photographs allowed?
• When are meals scheduled?
• When are visiting hours?
• How can family members get involved?
• Are family conferences offered to keep family members informed of the patient's progress?
  

Source: from Caregiver’s Handbook, Harvard Health Publications, Copyright © 2007 by President and Fellows of Harvard College. All rights reserved. Used with permission of StayWell.  Use of Content | Medical Disclaimer