Extended care facility
What is an extended care facility?
An extended care facility is a specialized healthcare institution that caters to individuals needing ongoing or prolonged medical care, rehabilitation services, and assistance with activities of daily living. Nursing care is available to address complex medical conditions that patients cannot do on their own, and medical monitoring of the patient’s vital signs and health status is also available.
Some populations that often benefit from an extended care facility include:
- Individuals recovering from surgery
- Seniors with chronic conditions
- Those with long-term disabilities
An extended care facility’s staff often includes registered nurses, therapists, and support staff. The nurses oversee medical management and provide nursing care, therapists support the patient’s rehabilitation, and support staff assist with daily tasks and offer companionship.
Why are extended care facilities important for healthcare?
Extended care facilities aid the continuum of care by offering a supportive place to live for those in need of longer-term care services.
The extended care facility addresses the specific needs of those with complex care requirements, aiding them as they recover from surgery or helping them manage chronic conditions and long-term disabilities. Additionally, extended care facilities offer 24/7 monitoring, allowing for a prompt response should an emergency occur or a patient’s health status change.