What is the average short term stay for a Medicare resident?

The average short-term stay for a Medicare resident is typically around 30 days. This timeframe aligns with the Medicare guidelines and national averages for rehabilitation and recovery services provided in skilled nursing facilities. Medicare often covers short-term stays for patients who require rehabilitation services after hospitalization, such as post-surgery recovery or major medical events, providing coverage for up to a certain period.

The 30-day average reflects the need for substantial rehabilitation while being brief enough to encourage efficient recovery and transition back to the community or home setting. This duration allows enough time for patients to receive necessary physical therapy, occupational therapy, and any skilled nursing care needed for their recovery without extending into long-term residency, which would fall under different coverage criteria.