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Swing Bed Program

The McKenzie Health System Swing Bed Program helps you transition your recovery from the hospital back to your own home. No matter where you have your surgery or receive healthcare, if you qualify for swing bed services, you can return to McKenzie’s Swing Bed Program for rehabilitation or skilled nursing needs.

The Swing Bed Program brings together a team of providers, nurses, therapists, a dietitian, a swing bed coordinator, and social workers to help you meet your recovery goals.

Call us at 810-648-6170 to learn more about our Swing Bed Program.
If you have paperwork to fax, please send to 810-648-6108.

What is a Swing Bed Program?

A Swing Bed Program allows small, rural hospitals like McKenzie Health System to provide skilled nursing and rehabilitation services right in the hospital facility. It replaces the need for transferring a recovering patient out of the community to a nursing home or rehabilitation center for skilled inpatient care. With the Swing Bed Program at McKenzie, your provider can transition or “swing” your care from acute medical care to skilled nursing or rehabilitative services.

The Swing Bed Program at McKenzie allows you to recover from surgery, illness, or injury right here in our community, where you can be close to home, friends, and family. It’s a short-term care solution until you are ready to care for yourself. Our professional and friendly staff will treat you like family and get you back to living your life.

McKenzie Health System’s Swing Bed Program

The Swing Bed Program at McKenzie Health System in Sandusky, Michigan was designed to meet your needs. We know it can take some time to recover from illness, stroke, injury, or surgery, and we want to help.

That’s why we always provide fresh, homemade meals and daily housekeeping. In addition to therapy and nursing services, daily activities are available.

Who is Right for Swing Bed Care?

Swing bed care benefits many patients. You may qualify if you require ongoing:

  • Physical, occupational, and speech therapy after surgery or an injury
  • IV therapy
  • Wound care that includes daily evaluation and treatment by skilled healthcare workers
  • Restorative nursing, procedures such as ostomy training, or diabetic education
  • Rehabilitation therapy after a stroke (CVA)
  • Therapy for debilitation/weakness

Eligibility for Swing Bed Programs

A Swing Bed Program is a federally approved program. To be eligible you must:

  • Have had a 3-day qualifying hospital stay in the last 30 days (with Medicare Part A)

OR

  • Be approved by your Medicare Advantage plan (we will help with this)
  • Be of Medicare age or have disability/disease requirements met
  • Be enrolled in Medicare Part A and have benefits available or have an Advantage plan
  • Meet criteria to require skilled care

What is the Cost for Swing Bed Care?

If you have Medicare, there is no cost for the first 20 days of Swing Bed care. Some services apply to Medicare disability. For days 21-100, Medicare will pay 80% of the cost. The remaining cost must be paid by supplemental insurance or out-of-pocket. Some private insurance coverage includes benefits for skilled care. McKenzie Health System will verify your insurance benefits before admission, so you won’t have any surprises.

Learn how the McKenzie Health Care System Swing Bed Program can help you or a loved one get back to daily life without leaving our community. Call the Swing Bed Coordinator at 810-648-6170. We’re here to help.

What Our Swing Bed Program Provides

Your Swing Bed care starts with provider services and 24-hour nurse-managed care, but that’s just the beginning. Your recovery care plan may include:

  • Physical therapy: Our team of physical therapists all holds doctorate-level degrees. They work to rehabilitate your injuries, build strength, prevent falls, and assist in your recovery. They will help you resume regular life activities such as walking, exercising, building strength, increasing flexibility, and maintaining your balance.
  • Occupational therapy: Occupational therapists will work with you to restore daily living skills such as bathing, dressing, grooming, cooking, and basic housekeeping so you can take care of yourself again.
  • Speech therapy: Our speech therapists will help you recover your communication skills such as expressing your thoughts orally, reading, and safe swallowing practices.
  • Nutrition services: Nutrition is important to your recovery and continued health. Our registered dietitian will work with you to develop a personalized nutrition plan. We serve fresh food that tastes great, and our customized plan will meet your dietary needs and personal preferences.
  • Diabetes education: If you are newly diagnosed or need help controlling your diabetes, a Registered Dietitian is available to help.
  • Swing Bed Coordination and Social Work: Our Swing Bed Coordinator and Social Worker will help you and your family connect with the resources and services you need during your stay and after you are discharged.

In Our Patients’ Words

All of the (Swing Bed) team was very attentive and helpful. The PT girls and OT girls helped me to gain strength and learn to deal with one leg. By the time I go home in a few days, I should be able to function pretty well on my own. My wonderful family will see to it I’m sure. Also, the food has been great. Lots of choices! — Bonnie

Was treated very well. When I put on the call light, they were very prompt to answer it. Always asked me if there was anything else I needed before leaving the room. Nurses and Aides always seemed upbeat and friendly. Was very satisfied with my stay. Being in the Swing Bed Program allowed me to heal longer and get care I wouldn’t have had if I would have gone home. — Sheila

Contact the McKenzie Swing Bed Coordinator to learn more about our Swing Bed Program. Call 810-648-6170 to schedule an appointment.