Angela's Posts

I didn't receive in-patient care after my hospitalization. But while helping older family members in the past, I've understood that they usually won't coordinate a move to a rehab facility ahead of time, because they have to certify that you're needing that assistance as you approach discharge. For sure, bring it up with your surgeon. Once you know which hospital you'll be in, I would suggest calling and speaking with their social worker about how they coordinate their transitions.

Hi Angela, Catie has good points re Docs having to say you need the extra care. Insurance needs to know. For myself, I did discuss my options with some friends that are nurses before I had my surgery. In my case, a nearby hospital ( about 3 miles from where I had surgery) is known for their rehab care. 40 + rooms on 2 floors for rehab after various surgeries. That is where I went for 10 days after I was discharged from my hospital. Early research does help. Ask your docs, too. They are familiar with facilities in yr area. Best wishes!!!

Having had knee and hip replacements a year apart I was familiar with the protocol for qualifying for rehab. I live alone and requested it to get daily physical therapy for knee & hip. I also live on a gnarly dirt road that home care might have a problem with. Both times stayed about a week before what they called "early release. Fast forward to open hear surgery in another state near family. They all assumed I could just "request" rehab. As I was going to recover at their home, they feared my needs. I was 8 days in hospital and the social worker explained I did not qualify as I could walk unassisted (including cane & walker). My sister drove mew to my dad's for showers as he has walk in shower with several handrails. I did not need assistance, but did have home health care for 2 weeks.

I appreciate your comments. I will remember that if I need to schedule SAVR. I was accepted into a clinical trial and was approved to get a TAVR instead. However my insurance company, United Serviceman's Family Health Plan wouldn't approve it. And my procedure is scheduled for next Tuesday. I haven't finished my profile since I don't know whether I'll have it now or not. The insurance company wouldn't answer the question, "Do ypu approve any TAVR's? So I'm so mad--all I want to do is be an anctivist, to fight for all of us who are getting prohibited from having the surgical procedure of their choice. The rest of the story is below.