Interior of empty hospital room

Swing Bed Services

What is Swing Bed?

The swing bed program at Mizell Memorial Hospital is a federally approved program for hospitals under 50 beds. It is designed to be short term. Assistance is provided to help patients reach a higher level of wellness or a higher level of independent functioning. During your stay, discharge options are explored. Your needs are assessed on an ongoing basis by your Medical Provider and the hospital staff.

How do I become eligible for Swing Bed Services?

If acute care hospitalization is no longer medically necessary and you meet the predetermined Medicare criteria, you may be eligible for Swing Bed care. The following criteria must be met in order for Medicare to cover Swing Bed:
1.The patient requires a skilled care service that must be provided by or under the supervision of professional or technical personnel such as IV therapy, physical therapy, speech therapy, or occupational therapy.
2.The skilled care service must be provided on a daily basis (or at least 5 days per week).
3.The patient must have had a 3 day qualifying hospitalization within 30 days of the Swing Bed admission date.
4.The patient must continue to show progress towards reaching their goals, or the goals of the health care providers.

Eligibility is assessed on a daily basis during the swing bed stay to ensure the qualifying criteria are met. Discharge planning needs are addressed, options are explored and services are arranged, if needed, to help ensure that your return to your home environment is successful.

What if I don't qualify for Medicare covered Swing Bed Services?

If you do not qualify for Swing Bed Medicare coverage following your acute care hospitalizations, you may choose to stay and pay for your Swing Bed stay yourself.

For more information on our Swing Bed program, contact the Case Manager at 334-493-3541, ext 1431 or 2151.