Swing bed services

Medicare Coverage Information

Overview

Medicare provides coverage for swing bed services, which allow patients to receive continued medical care and rehabilitation in a hospital setting when a skilled nursing facility is not immediately available. These services help patients transition from acute hospital care to ongoing medical treatment.

  • Swing bed services allow patients to receive continued care in a hospital after initial treatment
  • Typically used when patients need ongoing skilled nursing or rehabilitation services
  • Coverage is available for eligible Medicare beneficiaries with a medical need
  • Services must be prescribed by a healthcare provider
  • Limited duration of coverage applies
  • Medicare Part A beneficiaries
  • Patients requiring continued medical care after acute hospital treatment
  • Must have a medical need for skilled nursing or rehabilitation services
  • Covered under Medicare Part A
  • Patients may be responsible for daily coinsurance after a certain number of days
  • Exact costs depend on length of stay and specific medical services required
  • Requires physician certification of medical necessity
  • Limited to patients who need continued skilled nursing or rehabilitation services
  • Coverage has specific duration limits
  • Not all hospitals offer swing bed services
  • Consult with your hospital discharge planner
  • Discuss swing bed service options with your healthcare provider
  • Verify coverage details with your specific Medicare plan
  • Contact Medicare at 1-800-MEDICARE for specific questions
Last updated: 6/15/2025

Quick Information

Provider
Medicare
Last Updated
6/15/2025
Topics
Medicare swing bed serviceshospital rehabilitationskilled nursing careMedicare post-hospital caremedical transition services

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