After a hospital stay, often patients will transfer to a Transitional Care Program for further recuperation and therapies to enhance patient and family caregiver outcomes and reduce the risk of re-hospitalization for older adults. There are many Transitional Care options in Louisville and the surrounding areas, and making a decision can be overwhelming. Since 1884, Christian Care Communities has been caring for older adults and we’ve learned a lot about caring for this special population in the past 138 years. We want to share Top Ten Things to consider when looking for a transitional care facility:
- Visitation policies. Since the pandemic began, this is one of the most important questions to ask when choosing a skilled nursing facility. At Christian Care, we know family and friends are important to recovery and visitation is how we help make this happen. We encourage you to call for specific community guidelines and policies so you can visit loved ones safely.
- Caring and qualified staff. A caring and compassionate staff is a key factor when choosing a transitional care community. They are ultimately responsible for the care of residents and rehabilitation plans. Christian Care Communities is guided by our principles of faith, care and family. We’re more than a senior living facility – we’re a community that strives to enhance the journey of life for older adults.
- High facility standards. Along with high standards for care, a great healthcare community will have high standards for cleanliness, safety, dignity, respect for families, security and more.
- Broad range of services. There are a variety of needs during rehabilitation, and a facility must include all services for a successful program. Special care services to look for include rehabilitation, a variety of therapies, cardiac care, assistance with the activities of daily living, medication management and exercise.
- Acceptance of insurance and state/federal programs. Call to inquire what insurance and provider networks are accepted, as well as Medicare and Medicaid. Christian Care accepts most insurances, Medicare and Medicaid at our Health Centers.
- 24-hour care. Most transitional care facilities offer 24-hour care, but with high care needs after hospitalization, this is something to confirm.
- After discharge. Many older adults need in-home support services after discharge. Inquire about outpatient therapy and the process for helping set up in-home care. Christian Care offers a variety of support services after treatment which are personalized for each patient’s needs.
- Treatment team. The rehabilitation team members matter. At Christian Care, we prioritize spiritual care alongside physical care. Our on-site, full time Chaplain is active in each recovery journey. We find that chapel services, scripture study and devotionals, and prayer often lead to a speedier recovery.
- Quality outcomes. Success stories are important in choosing a transitional care facility. Ask for outcomes to get a good sense of the transitional care unit's success rate and reputation.
- Pandemic emergency plan. Since March 2020, all healthcare facilities have implemented extra safeguards against infection. Ask about specific guidelines on cleaning, infection control, personal protective equipment, and visitation.
High-quality transitional care is important for older adults with chronic conditions and complex therapy needs, especially after hospitalization. Although it can be heartening to return home after surgery, there is a higher likelihood of returning to the hospital if recuperation does not happen in a successful way.
The Christian Health Center of Louisville’s transitional care unit can be a short-term home for those who need ongoing skilled care before returning to their home. We offer the same comprehensive care of a traditional hospital, but for an extended recovery period in a comfortable environment. Personalized rehabilitation and therapy programs stimulate faster recovery of strength to return to daily living activities at home.
To learn more about Christian Health Center of Louisville’s Transitional Care program, please call 502.583.6533, and ask to speak with the Admissions Coordinator. Visit us online at https://www.christiancarecommunities.org/christian-health-center-transitional-care/ for testimonials and more about what we offer.
Christian Health Center
920 South 4th Street
Louisville, KY 40203