MDS Alert

Question: Does a leave of absence (LOA) for Medicare Part A-stay SNF patients create potential concerns about their need for a skilled level of care in an inpatient setting?


Answer: The facility can allow a Medicare Part A resident to go on an LOA. But if the person goes home often during a SNF stay, one could argue that he doesn't need a SNF level-of-care that can only be provided as a practical matter in an inpatient setting. LOAs are thus generally reserved for isolated events, such as a special family celebration or wedding - or the resident may try an overnight at home before discharge to see how he manages.

Source: Rita Roedel, RN, MS, Milwaukee, WI