Acute rehabilitation is designed to:
- Help improve your condition within a pre-set time period
- Set up a program designed to maintain your current condition and prevent it from getting worse
Qualifying for acute rehabilitation
Patients who need constant physical, occupational, or speech therapy to regain or improve their level of independence after an accident or illness may be right for an acute rehabilitation (acute rehab) program.
Admission to acute rehabilitation generally requires that you are able to take part in three or more hours of therapy a day. You must also be able to return home after an average stay of two to six weeks. Family members will need to plan for your return home once this care has ended.
Paying for acute rehabilitation
- Medicare: Medicare will usually pay for acute rehab if you meet its medical criteria for that level of care.
- Medicaid: Medicaid will pay for acute rehab as long as the facility is a state-contracted Medicaid provider. You may need prior approval and there may be some restrictions.
- Commercial insurance: Coverage varies by policy. Your care manager (clinical resource coordinator or social worker) can help you find out what coverage you might have. You may be responsible for a co-payment.
- No insurance: You pay or you may be able to get assistance (such as Medicaid). A social worker can help you apply for assistance.
Arranging for acute rehabilitation
Your care manager will meet with you soon after admission to begin the process. They will give you the names and locations of acute rehabilitation agencies in your area. Many acute rehab agencies will send their own representative to the hospital to meet you and do an evaluation for admission.
Length of acute rehabilitation
The length of stay depends on your needs and how you progress through your personal program. Your rehabilitation team will work with you to set goals and create a safe discharge plan.
Other information
There are three accredited acute rehabilitation programs in Vermont and four in New Hampshire. We encourage family members/significant others to tour the facilities. Every effort will be made to get you into the facility of your choice; however, options and available beds may be limited.