Post-Acute Care facilities provide services to patients to regain their strength and return home. Patients receive these services after hospitalization for surgery, injury, or illness. This acts as a bridge between the hospital and the next steps to recovery. So, why choose Post-Acute Care? Well, those who choose Post-Acute Care when discharged after being hospitalized are less likely to be re-admitted to the hospital. These results are possible due to the short-term rehabilitation goals set for patients to meet before discharge. Some of the services provided at a Post-Acute Care facility include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and respiratory therapy.
Post-Acute Care plays a critical role in health care by providing services that help get patients back to good health. The main focus is to maximize the patients’ functional abilities as well as confidence in caring for themselves as independently as possible. In an article published by, MarketWatch, explains that “Nearly 40% of beneficiaries who are covered under Medicare programs have discharged from an acute care hospital to post-acute care settings such as skilled nursing facilities (SNFs) or home health.” These individuals who are discharged to a post-acute care setting are monitored closely to ensure no recurring problems arise throughout the treatment process. Here are some additional benefits of post-acute care provided by the American Medical Rehabilitation Providers Association (AMRPA):
- Maximized patient health
- Prevented subsequent medical complications
- Lower rates of readmission to the hospital
- More time with doctors and personal attention
- Improved functional skills
- Sent patients home sooner
- Restored independence of patients
- Promoted participation in society
