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 physician 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.

Phone: 810-648-6170
Fax: 810-648-6108

McKenzie’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. The Swing Bed Program brings together a team of physicians, nurses, therapists, dietitians, a swing bed coordinator, and social workers to help you meet your recovery goals. Even if you were not originally hospitalized at McKenzie, you may still qualify for our Swing Bed Program.

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

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

Who might be a fit for Swing Bed care?

Swing bed care benefits many patients.
Do you need:

• Physical or occupational 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?

If you said “yes” to any of these questions, swing bed care could benefit YOU!

Who qualifies for Swing Bed care?

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

• Had a 3 day qualifying hospital stay in the last 30 days
• Are of Medicare age or have disability/disease requirements met
• Are enrolled in Medicare Part A and have benefits available
• 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.

Our Swing Bed Program Provides

Your Swing Bed care starts with physician services and 24 hour RN-managed care. But that’s just the beginning. Your recovery care plan may include:

Physical Therapy
Our team of physical therapists all hold doctorate­level 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 Certified Diabetes Educator 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 once you are released.