Martha Trammell is surrounded by GRMC staff members to celebrate her success in the program as the first swing-bed patient. (Courtesy Photo)

November 6, 2023 - Gila Regional Medical Center is excited to announce the admission of the very first swing-bed patient and has successfully utilized the program. A swing-bed service is available to rural and Critical Access Hospitals who have a Medicare provider agreement. This agreement allows for a patient to transition from receiving acute care to Skilled Nursing Facility care without needing to leave the hospital.

"I did not know this was an option at first, but I am glad [because] it has been very helpful to me," expressed Martha Trammell, the first GRMC swing-bed patient.

With the help of GRMC's Case Management team, Martha and her family selected to stay in-house to receive skilled therapy services after her initial hospital visit. She was able to receive specialized physical and occupational therapy services as part of her treatment under the swing-bed program.

"I know I can use the skills I have learned here to be successful at home," explained Martha. "The staff and the program here [at GRMC] provided me with excellent care and I have been well-taken care of."

The swing-bed service is approved and paid for by patients with traditional Medicare. A hospital case manager is assigned to every patient to guide the patient and family through the swing-bed program. "It is exciting that Martha Trammell was our very first swing bed patient and I am pleased she trusted in our hospital and medical staff to continue her plan of care with us," stated GRMC CEO, Robert Whitaker.