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S
ssimmons44 Asked March 2011

I think the doctor sent my brother home too soon after his hip surgery with no physical therapy. What can I do to help him at home?

ssimmons44 Mar 2011
Thank you, I will do that this morning. Sandra

anonymous14017 Mar 2011
You could give the Hospital's 'Patient Advocate" a call and tell them your concerns.

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toadballet1 Mar 2011
Before your brother left the hospital the social worker there should have instructed him about his options. Medicare does provide rehab and/or in-home care after a major hospital stay...especially hip surgery. Not sure about the details. Mom was in the hospital for 10 days. After she was released she received in-home care: a nurse (who oversees the medical part), a caregiver (for personal care and light housekeeping), and a physical therapist (this person documented her progress and ultimately decides if further care is needed.) In all she received 2 weeks of in home care.
I would call the social worker at your brother's hospital. If that does not work, call his doctor's office and ask if the doctor will order after care. Also, you can call a company that does Medicare in-home care and ask how a patient qualifies...if they want your business, they will tell you how it is done. There are also Medicare help lines...do not know if these are effective or not.
Shame on his doctor for not helping him with after care advice. I do not have a high opinion of the medical profession these days...seems all they want to do is hold you captive in the hospital until they can get the maximum out of Medicare then set you free to fend for yourself! The answer is to be proactive as a patient and an advocate for family members.
good luck

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