Transitional care services: 'step down' option for patients
Preventing readmission to a hospital and keeping patients safe while healing

Donna Manser, Le Sueur, was hospitalized for several days with a broken sacrum, the triangular bone at the base of the spine. Though she was recovering as expected, she needed a few extra days of care and therapy before she was ready to go home. Donna says she is grateful for the transitional care services she received at Ridgeview’s Le Sueur Campus.

Transitional care services, often referred to as swing bed services, is a step-down level of care that provides a bridge between a patient’s hospital stay and their discharge to home. Here, patients benefit from ongoing individualized medical care focused on recovery and rehabilitation therapy, while family has the comfort of knowing their loved one is receiving the help they need 24 hours a day.

Transitional care can be a critical step to help avoid complications and prevent hospital readmission. It ensures patients who need extra support do not "fall between the cracks" after leaving the hospital.

Patients gain confidence while families get peace of mind

“Transitional care provided me with the confidence I needed to get back on my feet before returning home. My experience was amazing, and my care team truly helped me maintain a positive attitude throughout my recovery,” Donna shared.

After transitional care, patients return home stronger and with more assurance to care for themselves and return to their daily routines. It can also give patients and their families time to assess whether returning home or moving to an assisted living facility is the right choice.

Transitional care is offered in Arlington and Le Sueur

Ridgeview offers transitional care services at its Arlington and Le Sueur campuses, primarily serving patients from the southwest metro to south-central Minnesota, but accepts patients from anywhere in the state.

Transitional care is often covered by insurance, including Medicare Part B and Medicare Advantage plans, especially when it is identified as medically necessary after hospitalization. Private insurance may also cover these services, though pre-authorization — confirming with your insurance provider — may be required.

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