In healthcare, particularly in rural settings, versatility and adaptability in patient care are crucial to the journey back to health. Whenever we hear the question, “What is a swing bed?” we’re not surprised — most patients are unfamiliar with the concept. Fortunately, we have answers!
What Is a Swing Bed?
The term “swing bed” doesn’t refer to a specific type of physical bed but to a particular stage of medical care. A swing bed program — more commonly known as “transitional care” — allows hospitals, especially those serving rural and remote areas, to use their beds for acute or post-acute care as patient needs change.
At East Adams Rural Healthcare, our swing bed program is essential to our commitment to comprehensive and compassionate patient care.
The Role of Swing Beds in Patient Care
Swing beds benefit patients who no longer need the complete resources of acute hospital care but still require certain medical services or rehabilitation. This type of care could include extended physical therapy, wound care, or other forms of recovery support.
The Benefits of Swing Bed Programs
Seamless Transition From Acute to Post-Acute Care
Patients can stay in the same facility as they transition from acute hospital care to rehabilitation, ensuring treatment continuity and ease of care.
Individually Tailored Care Plans
Each patient’s care plan is customized to their specific rehabilitation needs, allowing personalized treatment and attention.
Access to Comprehensive Services
Swing bed patients can access a broad range of services, including physical therapy, occupational therapy, and specialized nursing care.
Close to Home
For rural communities, having care close to home is invaluable. Swing beds allow patients to remain near their support systems while receiving the necessary care.
Cost-Effective Care
Swing beds provide a cost-effective solution for extended care, eliminating costly transfers to other facilities.
When to Consider a Swing Bed
The swing bed program is ideal for patients who:
- Require additional recovery time after surgery
- Need physical therapy to regain strength and mobility
- Are recovering from severe medical conditions like stroke or heart attack
Explore our blog post on transitional care units vs. skilled nursing facilities for further insights on recovery and care options.
Transitional Care at East Adams Rural Healthcare
At East Adams Rural Healthcare, we want every patient — and their loved ones — to experience the best possible care during their stay at our hospital or other medical facilities. You can count on our staff to provide complete and attentive service from arrival to check-out … and beyond.
Here’s what you can expect when you trust your medical needs to East Adams Rural Healthcare’s transitional care program:
Continuity of Care
Our swing beds smooth the transition between acute and post-acute care, ensuring that your medical care is never interrupted.
Personalized Treatment
Every patient is different, which is why EARH swing beds allow for the creation of custom care plans that address each individual’s unique needs.
Diverse Medical Services
If you’re rehabilitating after an injury, condition, or procedure, swing beds give you full access to our rehabilitative and other specialized hospital services.
Community Connection
Our swing beds provide care closer to home, so you’re better able to rest and recover as needed while remaining near the people who care about you the most.
Cost-Effectiveness
Swing beds also provide a more economical option for patients who require extended care.
Transitional care at East Adams Rural Healthcare is central to our ability to provide comprehensive and continuous care for each of our patients. Our swing bed program is one of the cornerstones of our approach to patient-centered healthcare, ensuring that each individual receives the appropriate level of care for their specific stage of recovery.
To learn more about our swing bed program and how it can benefit you or your loved ones, visit our Transitional Care page. You can also gain valuable insights from our blog posts discussing the value of swing bed rehab services and what a transitional care unit is.
At East Adams Rural Healthcare, we dedicate ourselves to providing the best possible care for each community member. Contact us today to learn more.
