If my Dad's in a SNF, can he leave to go on outings with family?

Why ever wouldn't you? Who said?

Check with the MD, what sounds like fun for you may not be safe for the patient.

Yes, I could take my dad out, but by the time he got to skilled nursing (in the last 3 months of his life), he had no interest in going anywhere. I would take him by wheelchair to the Independent Living part of the building, where my mom still lived for visits. He enjoyed that, it felt like he was back "home". If you can get your dad out and he's OK, then go for it!

Your father may not be up to going on day trips, but what I thought you were getting at is a worry that the SNF would prevent him merely on the grounds that he is their resident and therefore their responsibility. They may well have some sensible questions to ask about how you're going to keep him safe while he's out with you, but why would they want to prevent you as a matter of principle? I've never heard of that's being a policy, as such - has anyone else?

Thank you everyone. I was under the impression that once in, he could not leave. I have since realized that if the patient is in for recovery or rehab, Medicare prefers that you do not leave. I guess that the feeling is if they are well enough to go out from SNF, then they really don't need to be there. My dad is going into a nursing home as a long term resident, actually while waiting for the VA to make up their minds on whether or not, they have room. Dad is well enough, but is not steady on his feet. Uses a walker. LOVES to eat out.

Then the NH is his home, not his prison. Plan trips ahead thoroughly (do the full risk assessment / logistics thing for your own peace of mind, aside from anybody else's approval) and you'll be adding to his quality of life. Long may he continue to enjoy fine dining!

Get a transport or companion chair and take him out for meals when you're both able. I carry my mom's transport chair in my trunk and have used it for the past 13 years for both my mom and dad. It's been worth its weight in gold to my family. I've taken my mom and dad all over the place with that chair. It folds up and is relatively lightweight. You can get them for $100-200 at drugstores like Walgreens or Bed Bath & Beyond or any medical supply store.

You just need to get a doctor's order. Try it out. Enjoy!