Submitted by Lutheran Hillside Village
Life sometimes throws you off your feet — like when you have an illness, emergency procedure, or surgery. When that happens, what should you look for when it comes to short-stay rehabilitation?
“There are a lot of things to consider when making a selection. From the accommodations desired, to receiving top-notch therapy with personable, caring nursing staff. All can make a difference in your recovery and stay,” says Sandy Vogel, Health Services Counselor at Lutheran Hillside Village. “Plan ahead because it will be worth your time.”
Accommodations
If you’ll be away from home, you’ll want to be comfortable. “While accommodations can seem like a small issue to base your choice on for short-stay rehab, after a few days it could become a big deal,” says Sandy. “I always recommend taking a tour of any location that you are considering, before making your final decision.”
- Dining — Are you able to have a wide selection of food? Is food available at any time or only during meal times?
- Rooms — Are the rooms offered private, or would you need to share them with another person? Is the bathroom private or shared?
- Special Amenities — What about Wifi for your computer or tablet? Is there a private TV in each room? Are there Common rooms and outdoor spaces? Activities?
Outcomes
“To be an informed consumer, make sure to ask for several pieces of information that will tell you about the quality and value of your short-stay rehabilitation location,” says Sandy. “You will want to make sure that you recover as safely and quickly as possible, so you can return to your normal routine at home.”
- Length of Stay — What is the average amount of time that patients spend while recovering? How does that compare to the national average of 21 days?
- Readmission Rate — Once patients go home, how many of them have to return to the hospital?
- Satisfaction Rate — What did others say about their experience?
- Percentage Discharged to Prior Level of Living —Once therapy was completed, were patients able to go back home?
Communication
“Throughout your rehabilitation, communication is key,” says Sandy. Especially if you’ve designated family members or providers to be aware of your progress, you’ll want your short-stay rehabilitation location to provide necessary updates and information.
- How will family members remain informed?
- What’s the best way to get in contact if we have questions?
- Can my records be sent to my primary care physician?
Lutheran Hillside Village offers REACH Short Stay Rehabilitation for occupational, speech, and physical therapy following a surgery or illness. Call 309-689-2326 to take a personal tour of newly constructed private rooms and a state-of-the-art therapy gym. REACH for your goals at REACH Short Stay Rehabilitation!