Share This Checklist

Checklist: Questions to Ask When Selecting a Long-Term Care Hospital

Choosing the right long-term care hospital (LTCH) is crucial for ensuring the best outcomes for your loved one. Use this checklist to guide your discussions with LTCH providers and make an informed decision.

  • What is the hospital’s accreditation status?
  • Is the LTCH Medicare-certified and licensed?
  • What is the staff-to-patient ratio?
  • What are the visiting hours and policies for family members?
  • Does the hospital have experience treating patients with my loved one’s condition?

  • What specialized services does the hospital offer? (e.g., respiratory therapy, wound care, rehabilitation)
  • What is the hospital’s experience with ventilator weaning or complex wound care?
  • Does the hospital have an interdisciplinary care team, and how often do they meet to discuss patient progress?
  • Are therapies such as physical, occupational, and speech therapy offered on-site?

  • How is pain management handled?
  • Are there private or semi-private rooms available?
  • What amenities are offered for patient comfort, such as Wi-Fi, televisions, or outdoor areas?
  • How are dietary needs or preferences addressed?

  • How are families included in the care planning process?
  • Who will be the primary point of contact for updates on the patient’s condition?
  • Is there regular communication between the family and care team?
  • Can families participate in therapy sessions or care discussions?

  • What is the hospital’s infection control policy?
  • What are the hospital’s patient safety ratings and outcomes for similar conditions?
  • How does the hospital handle emergencies or transfers to other facilities?

  • Does the hospital accept Medicare, Medicaid, or my private insurance?
  • Are there additional out-of-pocket costs I should anticipate?
  • Does the hospital have a financial counselor to help families understand billing and payment options?

  • How does the hospital prepare for patient transitions, such as moving to rehabilitation or home care?
  • Is there a dedicated discharge coordinator to help with the process?
  • What resources are available for ongoing care after discharge?

  • What do former patients or their families say about the hospital?
  • Are there testimonials or reviews available to read?
  • Can the hospital provide references or connect me with families who have used their services?

Save Time With Checklists

Buried in Work offers several checklists to save you time.

Get The Checklists

Leave Your Heirs The Gift Of Organization With a CLEAR Kit

Did you know?

The average estate takes 570 hours to administer.

Other Useful Checklists

Related Content