Chatham Hospital’s Interim Care Program may answer your needs when you no longer need to receive hospital care but are not quite ready to care
for yourself at home. It is a short stay program that provides rehabilitation following a hospital stay. Examples of people who may benefit from Interim
Care include those who have had surgery, joint replacement or injuries. Our team works closely with you every step of the way to ensure that you receive
the therapies to meet your individual needs. This team collaborates weekly to discuss your progress, individualized goals and your discharge plan with you,
your family and/or caregivers.
Chatham Hospital is a community hospital that is close to home. Every patient in Interim Care has a private room with free Wi-Fi. You will have personalized
nursing care in a rehabilitation environment. There is convenient, free parking for your family members when they come to visit.
Who will provide your care?
The Interim Care team consists of the following healthcare professionals:
| • | You (the patient) |
| • | Doctor |
| • | Nurses |
| • | Discharge Planner/Case Manager |
| • | Pharmacist |
| • | Dietician |
| • | Physical Therapist and Occupational Therapist |
| • | Respiratory Therapist |
| • | Utillization Review Coordinator |
What kind of care should you expect?
After a period of time in a hospital receiving treatment for your illness or injury, you may progress to the point where your doctor no longer needs to monitor and treat you on a daily basis. However, daily medical services may be needed, like those provided by the Interim Care team. This is called “skilled” care and it is the type of care you will receive in the Interim Care Program. Examples include physical therapy, occupational therapy, respiratory therapy or intravenous medications.
In the Interim Care Program you receive therapy to meet your individual needs.
How long is the Interim Care Program?
The average length of stay in the Interim Care Program is 14 days or less.
Who qualifies for the Interim Care Program?
You must need a “skilled” level of care, similar to that provided by a skilled nursing facility. You must also have a 3-day qualifying hospital stay. Many Interim Care patients are elderly, but there are no age restrictions to the program.
What are the benefits of the Interim Care Program?
| • | You have more time to recover and gain strength before going home, without having to go to a nursing home to recover. |
| • | Therapy services are centered on self care skills and functional strengthening, which will increase your independence when you leave. |
| • | You have continued access to a doctor and hospital services (Should the need arise you can return to acute care without changing beds). |
| • | Your family is welcome to be present and involved. |
Can I transfer from another hospital to the Interim Care Program at Chatham Hospital?
Yes, anytime you are in the hospital and it is recommended that you have a skilled level of care or rehabilitation, you can request a referral to Chatham Hospital’s Interim Care Program. A representative of our Interim Care team will talk to you and your doctor to see if the Interim Care Program is right for you.
How is the Interim Care Program paid for?
The Interim Care Program is covered by Medicare. Some admission criteria does apply. Some other insurances may cover Interim Care. The Case Manager will help you with financial arrangements should you need it.
For more information call our Case Management Department – 919-799-4781.
