In life, you may be faced with a suggestion from a medical provider that you consider skilled nursing care to help you through a specific illness, in the aftermath of a surgery, or for rehabilitation after a medical event or accident. While some people think of this as something only people of a certain age require, the truth is that it can be useful to people of all ages. These are the basics you need to know about skilled nursing so you can get the right care for your needs.
What is Skilled Nursing Care?
Skilled nursing care is care provided by medical professionals in an in-patient facility under a physician's supervision. Skilled nursing care is obviously conducted by nurses, though other professionals you may find working in a skilled nursing facility include physical and occupational therapists, speech pathologists, and others. The staff who provided skilled nursing care offer round-the-clock assistance to patients who are often recovering from some form of illness, accident, or recovering from surgery.
How is Skilled Nursing Different from a Nursing Home?
The primary difference between a skilled nursing center and a nursing home is the amount of time patients are eligible to receive care. Skilled nursing is intended as a temporary measure during recovery. It should only last until patients can care for themselves independently and their physicians feel confident in their ability to do so. A nursing home, in contrast, is more permanent. Nursing home communities are designed for people who need long-term access to continuous care or assisted living.
How Long Do Skilled Nursing Services Last?
Ultimately, skilled nursing care can last as long as patients and their physicians feel the care is necessary. However, most insurance companies require hefty copayments for care beyond a certain amount of time, usually two or three weeks. Medicare, for instance, requires patients to pay $185.50 per day after the first 21 days and 100 percent of costs for skilled nursing care after 100 days.
When is Skilled Nursing Necessary?
Doctors recommend skilled nursing for various reasons. Common reasons include the following:
- Mobility assistance following surgery.
- Physical or occupational rehab after surgery, injuries, or certain medical events (such as a stroke).
- Complex illnesses and injuries that require extensive care and rehabilitation until the patient recovers.
- Injuries or illnesses that require patients to "relearn" how to speak, walk, or perform routine tasks.
Most physicians do not recommend skilled nursing care lightly. However, for those who require this added level of care, the benefits are well worth the investment. Contact a skilling nursing facility to learn more.
