Swing Bed

Established by Medicare, “Swing Bed” refers to beds in certified rural hospitals that can be used for either acute care patients or post acute patients who are eligible and require additional medical care or therapy prior to returning home. Other insurance plans may approve as well.

While a wide spectrum of clinical needs may qualify for a Swing Bed stay, many people need additional assistance to safely perform their activities of daily living prior to returning home. A Swing Bed stay can support ongoing and safe independence for an elderly person and can assist patients of any age needing additional therapy, post-surgery. Whether the patient is initially treated at an out-of-town medical center or a rural hospital, Swing Beds offer quailified patients a viable short-term solution. If long-term care or in-home care will be needed, Swing Bed care can offer families time to make arrangements for ongoing care.

How Long Can Patients Stay in Swing Bed?
The Swing Bed program provides short term care with average length of stay between 1 to 3 weeks. For longer stays, the services of a skilled care facility may be more appropriate.

If you are interested in learning more about Elbert Memorial Hospital’s Swing Bed program, or if you have any question regarding eligibility, please call at 706-213-2550 or email at Leanne Roberts, Director of Case Managment  at lroberts@emhcare.net.
Baseline eligibility:
  • Minimum three day acute care hospital stay within the previous 30 day Medicare A; Medicare Advantage and commercial insurance reviewed case by case.
  • Stable medical status.
  • Physician referral for daily skilled care and/or rehab related to the acute care hospitalization.
  • Participation in Medicare Part A or other qualified insurance plans
  • Our evaluation team determines if patient needs can be met by her services

*Once admitted, eligibility is reviewed on an ongoing basis; to remain in the program the patient must be participating and demonstrating progress.

Types of Referrals:
While the types of diagnoses and procedures during acute hospitalization covered by Swing Bed vary, the most common considered for admission to our program include, but are not limited to the following:
  • Orthopedic Procedures
  • Gastrointestinal Procedures
  • Cardiac Conditions
  • COPD, Pneumonia, COVID-19
  • Wound Care
  • Post-Stroke Care
If you or a loved one has a different diagnosis or procedure that could benefit from Swing Bed care, please contact us for an evaluation.
Services
  • Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy and Respiratory Therapy
  • Wound Care
  • Education for Patient and Family
  • Interdisciplinary Team
  • Patient Centered Goals and Outcomes
  • Custom Care Plans
  • Nutritional Counseling
  • Case Management
  • Engagement Activities
  • Free Cable Wi-Fi and Phone
  • Selective Meal Plan
  • Higher licensed nursing involvement than most skilled nursing facilities.
Items to bring to the Hospital
  • Three to four comfortable outfits (sweat pants and t-shirts work well). The family is responsible for keeping clothes laundered.
  • Comfortable well-fitting, non-skid sole shoes (i.e. tennis shoes)
  • Toiletries (i.e. toothpaste, denture cleaner and paste, deodorant, personal cosmetics, or grooming items as desired and appropriate)
  • Insurance cards, copy of Advanced Directive – if applicable
  • Power of Attorney for Healthcare and/or Finances