Transitional Care

What is Transitional Care?

SEARHC’s Transitional Care program, offered in both Sitka and Wrangell, brings healing closer to home. Our Transitional Care program is provided through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid (CMS) Swing Bed option, allowing beds to be used for both acute and post-acute care.

Staffed with skilled nurses and rehabilitation specialists, swing beds provide a bridge for patients who are ready to leave the acute care setting but need additional treatment or rehabilitation before returning home.

Whether you or a loved one is recovering from surgery, managing a complex medical condition or building strength after a hospital stay, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

For further inquiries, referrals and admissions into the SEARHC Transitional Care program, email transitionalcare@searhc.org or fax referrals to 907.874.7178.

Our Program Offers

Customized Recovery Plans: Tailored care plans to meet unique rehabilitation needs.

Expert Support: Skilled, caring medical providers available 24/7.

Registered nurse and physician care team
Rehabilitation services, social worker and dietitian services
Access to visiting specialty services
Daily physical care by certified nursing assistants

Comprehensive Amenities: Private and shared rooms, daily activities and more.

Daily home-cooked meals tailored to your dietary needs, 24-hour snack service
Room amenities include local calls, internet access, cable TV
Full-service laundry and daily housekeeping

Convenience and Comfort: High-quality care right here in Southeast Alaska.

Generous visitation policy

Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center-specific Features:

Respiratory therapy services
General surgery access

Wrangell Medical Center-specific Features:

Daily activities staff and a robust activities schedule

Is Transitional Care Right for You?

Patients with a variety of needs can benefit from Transitional Care. Our care team is at the ready to help patients recovering from:

Surgery or major procedures such as complex orthopedic surgery or cardiac surgery
Serious illness such as stroke, pneumonia or sepsis
Injuries requiring rehabilitation such as fractures or trauma

Our team also provides ongoing medical support, including but not limited to:

Physical, Occupational or Speech Therapy to rebuild strength and skills.
Wound Care for healing and prevention of complications.
Advanced Respiratory Care for complex respiratory conditions

Why Choose SEARHC Transitional Care?

Choosing SEARHC for Transitional Care services affords many patient and family benefits such as:

Healing Closer to Home: Receiving care closer to home allows patients to be nearer to their local support networks, family and friends. This helps create a more familiar and comfortable healing experience.
Faster Recovery: Expert care reduces the risk of hospital readmission and can help patients return home to “normal” daily life faster.
Comprehensive Support: Access to a wide range of medical and rehabilitation services all in one place.

Admission to Transitional Care

Ready to take the next step? Our care team is available to answer your questions and help you through the process. SEARHC has two facilities offering Transitional Care in Southeast Alaska:

Mt. Edgecumbe Medical Center (MEMC)

Located in Sitka, MEMC is a 25-bed hospital, providing comprehensive Transitional Care to those needing advanced medical support and rehabilitation.

Learn more about Transitional Care at MEMC.

Wrangell Medical Center (WMC)

Located in Wrangell, WMC is an 8-bed hospital, providing personalized Transitional Care to help meet our patients’ unique needs.

Learn more about Transitional Care at WMC.

For further inquiries, referrals and admissions into the SEARHC Transitional Care program, email transitionalcare@searhc.org or fax referrals to 907.874.7178.