In 2021, choosing the appropriate care path for critically ill patients will remain essential to achieving optimal outcomes for patients and managing total costs of care as the healthcare industry continues to support the influx in utilization due to the pandemic.

While LTAC hospitals provide care for a very high-acuity, niche patient population - historically, LTACHs care for the sickest 0.8% of patients discharging from short-term acute care hospitals (STACHs) - they play a vital role in helping patients recover more efficiently. By transitioning these complex patients to a LTAC hospital, referring hospitals can help to manage preventable rehospitalizations, and successfully avoid readmission penalties. Further, LTAC hospitals have proven to be a key outlet during times of high ICU capacity.

This infographic contains key identifiers of high-acuity patients who may require care at long-term acute care hospitals (LTACHs).