Before accepting a placement
Ask which facilities can meet the ordered nursing and therapy needs, whether they are in network, and how transportation and medication reconciliation will work.
Decision guide
Hospital discharge to skilled nursing
Questions to ask before a post-acute transfer.
Goals and timing
Request the expected therapy schedule, measurable goals, review dates, family training, and the conditions for discharge home or transfer to another setting.
Coverage is individual
A hospital referral does not itself guarantee Medicare or insurer payment. Confirm authorization, cost sharing, and appeal rights with the plan or administering program.
Official sources and next step
Rules, data, and individual eligibility can change. Check the dated official source and confirm the facility, contract, clinical fit, and payment details directly.