Long-Term Acute Care

When you’re sick or there is an emergency, you may go to the closest hospital or medical center in your area. But if you have a health condition (like lung disease or a brain injury) that requires multiple visits or long-term care, you have a choice in where to go to receive the best possible care.

Long-term acute care (LTAC) facilities provide specialized care for people who have serious sicknesses or injuries and need treatment for an extended period of time. The goal of these centers is to provide quality healthcare to each patient. However, some facilities do a better job than others. That’s why it is important to compare nearby facilities to see which one fits your needs.

Questions to Consider When Choosing an LTAC Facility:

• Which facility does my doctor work with?
• Is there a facility that has better experience with my condition/surgery?
• Does my insurance cover it? How much does my insurance cover?
• Can I use Medicare/Medicaid at this facility?
• How close is it to my home? Is it near family or friends?
• How does it compare to other LTAC facilities in the area?

Steps for Choosing an LTAC Facility:

• Ask your doctor for a recommendation.
• Ask the facility’s admissions department about your condition or surgery, the staff and emergency plans.
• See if the facility is accredited or follows certain rules for safety and quality. Visit www.qualitycheck.org to see how nearby facilities are rated.

Additional Resources:

The Joint Commission: www.qualitycheck.org

Medicare – Care Compare: www.medicare.gov/care-compare