Long-Term Care Hospitals (LTCHs) are locations where incoming patients are expected to need at least 25 days of inpatient care and support. These patients often suffer from severe respiratory issues, serious wounds, and other serious conditions. LTCHs are often utilized as a midway point for many people in their recovery or transition. They help stabilize patients and support their move to nursing homes, back home, or to other locations like physical rehabilitation centers.
CMS often helps through both Medicare and Medicaid for many of these patients. Many will end up with dual eligibility, further mitigating out-of-pocket expenses for patients in such a delicate state, many of whom otherwise may not be able to pay for these services.
LTCHs that participate in Medicare and Medicaid services are required to maintain certain standards of care, including infrastructure, safety protocols, and staffing levels.