Q&A: Intermediate care facilities

Q: In what instances are immediate care facilities appropriate?

A: Intermediate care facilities are generally for clients who require a custodial level of care or patients who are ambulatory and able to exit safely in the event of a fire. Payment is generally through Medicaid or LTC insurance.

Many patients placed in an intermediate care facility will be those clients who have developmental disabilities. The goal is achieving the least restrictive level of care possible. Facility sizes and levels of care vary to accommodate differing need levels.

If the facilities in the area are unknown, contact the local or state department of social services for information.

For more information, see The Hospital Case Management Orientation Manual.

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