Post-acute care includes rehabilitation services that beneficiaries receive after a stay in an acute care hospital. Depending on the intensity of care the patient requires, treatment may include a stay in a facility, ongoing outpatient therapy, or care provided at home.

Post-acute care settings include inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and units, long-term care hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, and home health agencies. Compared to lower acuity providers, inpatient rehabilitation hospitals and units have:

• Maximized patient health
• Prevented subsequent medical complications
• Lower rates of readmission to the hospital
• More time with doctors and personal attention
• Improved functional skills
• Sent patients home sooner
• Restored independence of patients
• Promoted participation in society