RHC: Frequently Asked Questions

About Us / Frequently Asked Questions

How regularly do physicians make visits?
A physician attends a patient as their care requires, but daily as a general rule.
Can my family or I visit before I make my decision?
Yes, Regency welcomes you to come and take a tour of our hospital. The staff is always available to answer your questions or to simply provide support for you during this difficult time of recovery.
How do you define “long term acute care?”
Long term acute care (LTAC) is defined as medical care provided to patients who meet acute care criteria and require hospitalization for a time period generally greater than 25 days.
What is the average length of stay?
The length of a patient’s stay varies depending on diagnosis, age and acuity level, but the average is approximately 25 days.
Do you accept Medicaid?
No.
Is Regency a step down from my regular hospital?
No.
What is your nurse to patient ratio?
Staffing is based on acuity and ICCU patients average 2 to 1; medical/surgery average 5 to 1.
What is your ratio of respiratory therapists (RTs) to patients? How many RTs do you have per shift?
It is based on acuity and number of treatments required in house. There are always a minimum two RTs on staff 24/7.
How many days per week is rehab offered? Do you have physical therapists, occupational therapists and speech therapists?
We offer rehab six days a week. It is provided in addition to the acute medical intervention the patient requires.
Who are the primary care physicians?
Your own physician usually follows and most physicians on staff at the local hospital are on staff with Regency.
Do you have a wound team or medical director for the program?
Yes, Regency does have dedicated staff, certified with complex wound care and a medical director for wound care.
Do you have psychological support? Chaplain?
Our social worker can provide psychological support to you. Yes, we have a Chaplain.
Do you provide cots for family members?
No, however we have sleeper recliners. A cot may be provided when approved. Due to fire regulations and safety concerns these are not always available in the semi-private rooms.
How is the patient progress tracked?
Interdisciplinary team meetings are held on a weekly basis.
Do you have an onsite pharmacy?
Yes.
Does Regency provide cancer treatment?
Generally, we are not a cancer treatment facility, but we do treat patients with cancer, provided it is not the primary reason for admission.
While I am in the hospital, am I able to leave and come back?
No, patients requiring hospital care are considered too ill to leave.
How can a long term acute care hospital be less expensive than a short term acute care hospital?
Patients transferred to a long term acute care hospital are medically stable and do not require the critical care resources found in short term acute care hospitals, which are typically the most costly to a patient. In addition, Regency Hospital is specialized and focused on the delivery of medically complex care and does not have the higher overhead of additional programs, such as OB/GYN suites or emergency rooms. This allows cost containment and results with minimized patient expense.
Can family stay with a patient in LTAC?
Yes, we will welcome a family member staying with you, as we know that it is critical to your recovery and well being. Also, families can be present to make plans and be prepared for post discharge care.
What assistance and/or resources are available to my family while staying in the area to visit me?
During your stay at Regency Hospital, you will be able to speak with a case manager or medical social worker who has information available regarding external resources. There is a list available of hotels with discounted rates. Our case management department has a book of community resources which can be helpful when patients and family members have particular needs.
How do I get a copy of my record from Regency Hospital?
You can call the Health Information Management Department to request a copy of any records. A patient authorization for release of information will need to be signed by the patient or personal representative before a copy of any medical record is made. A charge may be incurred for copying the record.
Where do patients go after discharge? Can I go back to my home?
Based on the clinical needs of the patient and the capabilities of at-home support systems, a patient may be discharged to a rehabilitation center, skilled nursing home/subacute care facility, or can be sent home, typically with home healthcare. Prior to discharge, you should receive thorough education to assist in your home care. If needed for your family, our staff will teach them how to care for you and any necessary medical equipment at home you may need.