In the Inpatient Unit

Description of Levels of Care

1. General Inpatient (GIP) Level of Care:  
GIP level of care is always short term. It is available for patients who are experiencing uncontrolled symptoms and need observation and or intervention. It is available for patients who are either experiencing symptoms that are not controlled. Some examples of uncontrolled symptoms are agitation, ascites, bleeding, cardiac failure, insomnia, intestinal obstruction, nausea/vomiting, pain, respiratory failure/dyspnea, seizure, wound care, renal failure, terminal restlessness, etc. There are specific signs/symptoms that must be present to show that the symptom is uncontrolled and meets the inpatient criteria. When a patient is GIP, a physician makes regular visits to assist with symptom management. GIP services are covered 100% by Medicare and Medicaid. Hospice accepts other insurances also, though the insurance coverage/benefits may vary. If a patient stops meeting the criteria for GIP, discharge planning will begin. Discharge planning options include returning home or to a family/friend’s home, placement at an assisted living or skilled nursing facility, or a patient may decide to transfer to residential status if available.

2. Residential Level of Care:
Residential level of care is for patients who lack the caregiving that their physical condition warrants. There is no limit to the amount of time patients spend in residential care; however, a residential patient must maintain a prognosis of less than three months. If a patient stops meeting the residential criteria, discharge planning will begin. Patients who access residential level may pay privately for the room and board based on a sliding scale. Inpatient Unit also accepts long-term care insurance and Special Assistance through the Department of Social Services.

3. Respite Care:
Respite care is available for patients/caregivers to access when a caregiver needs to take a short break. However, patients who need GIP level always take priority over respite care. Respite is funded by Medicare, Medicaid and some insurance.