Post-Acute or Home Health Care? 5 Questions to Ask
Most patients understand the process when you have an injury or illness. First, you see a doctor or visit the hospital. Next, you receive a diagnosis and treatment. Finally, you are released and able to go. But what happens if you still require additional treatment, medications or rehab?
This is where post-acute care comes in. Acute care is short-term treatment of an injury or illness, typically in a hospital setting. Post-acute care is the continuation of the healing process, and can be short- or long-term depending on the patient’s needs. This type of care can be administered at one of Santé’s licensed care facilities, or in the comfort of your own home.
If you’re unsure whether home health care or transitional care at one of our facilities is best for you or a loved one, start by asking these five questions:
- How much attention does my condition require? Think about the daily care you’ll need during your recuperation: medication, rehabilitative testing and exercises, assistance with daily tasks, etc. While it may be possible to arrange round-the-clock care at home, patients who require regular assistance throughout the day may find an onsite post-acute program more practical for their needs – at least until the patient is physically and mentally able to take care of some of their daily needs.
- How long will care be needed? While your doctor can’t predict the future, he or she knows how long it typically takes someone with your injury or condition to recover. Consider this estimate when you decide how to proceed. Remember, whether you choose Santé home health care or inpatient care at our facility, you can always change locations. For example, if you broke a bone following a fall, you may choose to enter a care facility before transitioning to home health care later in your recovery process.
- How safe is my home? Recovering at home can give patients a greater feeling of comfort and independence. You may feel greater ease surrounded by happy memories, loving family members and close friends. However, safety is a top priority when recovering from injury or illness. Consider any obstacles that may hinder your progress, such as a cluttered environment that makes learning to walk after a bad fall difficult. Does your home have safety features such as handrails and shower bars, or can they be installed? If you are arranging care for a loved one, ensure that their residence is safe and comfortable before choosing home health care.
- How mobile am I? Navigating at home can be difficult after a fall or injury. However, it’s still possible. If you are mobile, or working towards better mobility with the help of a physical therapist, look at both the home and facility environments to see where you are most comfortable. If, for example, you’ll be in a wheelchair or scooter during recovery and your home isn’t accessible, you may prefer Santé’s facilities, which accommodate patients at all stages of mobility.
- Who is available to help? If you opt for care at home, your team could include skilled nurses, medical social workers, home health aides and physical, occupational or speech therapists. Family support may be necessary when care workers aren’t present. If you are in a facility, you’ll have round-the-clock care provided by skilled nurses. Santé’s facilities also have access to physicians specializing in orthopedic care, neurological rehab and cardiac rehab.
By asking yourself or your loved one these important questions, you can make more informed decisions about the kind of care that’s best for the patient. Whether you choose home health care or post-acute care at one of our facilities, rest assured that Santé’s team of caring and compassionate specialists will be with you every step of the way. Call 480-563-2402 or visit one of our five Arizona locations today to see how Santé can help with your recovery.
