What Qualifies a Patient for Skilled Nursing Care? What You Need to Know

A nurse is holding the hand of an elderly woman.

A patient qualifies for skilled nursing care when they need medical services that can only be provided by licensed professionals, such as registered nurses or physical therapists. This level of care is often required after a hospital stay, surgery, or serious illness.


Common qualifying needs include wound care, IV therapy, rehabilitation after a stroke, monitoring of chronic conditions, or recovery from major surgeries. Skilled nursing is typically prescribed by a doctor and may be short-term or long-term, depending on the patient’s condition.


Unlike assisted living, which focuses on daily personal care, skilled nursing provides around-the-clock medical support in a licensed facility.


If your loved one needs medical attention beyond basic daily assistance, Heisinger Bluffs offers skilled nursing care with compassion, professionalism, and dignity.


Frequently Asked Questions

  • Is a doctor’s order required for skilled nursing care?

    Yes, skilled nursing typically requires a physician’s referral and care plan.

  • How is skilled nursing different from assisted living?

    Skilled nursing provides medical care; assisted living focuses on daily support.

  • Will insurance cover skilled nursing care?

    It depends. Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance may cover qualified services.


Sources:

  1. https://www.uhc.com/news-articles/medicare-articles/whats-the-difference-between-a-skilled-nursing-facility-and-a-nursing-home
  2. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/stroke/in-depth/stroke-rehabilitation/art-20045172
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