CMS Critical Access Hospital Swing Bed Requirements-Critical Access Hospital Swing Beds Recording

Video Transcription

Video Summary

In a recent webinar, Ms. Laura Dixon, the Director of Risk Management and Patient Safety for the Colorado region of Kaiser Permanente, discussed the complexities of managing swing beds in critical access hospitals. Swing beds allow these smaller hospitals to keep patients within their community, help stabilize census, and provide financial support through Medicare reimbursements. A swing bed can be used interchangeably as an acute care or skilled nursing facility (SNF) bed, without moving the patient physically within the hospital.<br /><br />Dixon emphasized the importance of patient rights, including their choice of physician, right to privacy, and freedom from abuse and neglect. She highlighted the regulatory requirements from CMS and urged attendees to adhere strictly to these rules, including correct documentation, prompt reporting of any abuse, and adherence to appropriate discharge procedures.<br /><br />Regarding deficiencies, common issues identified included not informing residents of their rights, inappropriate use of restraints, and failures in providing adequate social services. Dixon noted that hospitals need to stay updated with CMS regulation changes by subscribing to the Federal Register and checking updated CMS manuals.<br /><br />Dixon also discussed the necessity of providing medically-related social services and compliant nutrition and dental services for those in swing bed care. She stressed the need for a comprehensive assessment covering the resident’s cognitive, psychosocial status, physical functioning, and personalized care plans to ensure a high level of care.<br /><br />In summary, Ms. Dixon's presentation highlighted the need for stringent management, documentation, and adherence to CMS guidelines in swing bed operations to provide superior patient care and avoid compliance issues.

Keywords

swing beds

critical access hospitals

Kaiser Permanente

patient rights

CMS regulations

Medicare reimbursements

acute care

skilled nursing facility

patient safety

documentation

abuse reporting

social services

personalized care plans