Long-Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH)
Hospital-level care for medically complex patients who need more time to recover after an ICU or hospital stay.
Patients who are stable but still require intensive clinical care can continue their recovery in a specialized LTACH environment designed for extended healing and a safe transition to the next level of care.
Long-Term Acute Care Hospital (LTACH)
Hospital-level care for medically complex patients who need more time to recover after an ICU or hospital stay.
Patients who are stable but still require intensive clinical care can continue their recovery in a specialized LTACH environment designed for extended healing and a safe transition to the next level of care.
Long-Term Acute Care at a Glance
24-hour nursing and respiratory care
Daily physician visits
Seamless transition to rehabilitation or home
Ventilator weaning expertise
Long-Term Acute Care at a Glance
24-hour nursing and respiratory care
Daily physician visits
Ventilator weaning expertise
Seamless transition to rehabilitation or home
The Bridge Between ICU and Home
Acute care hospitals focus on stabilizing patients during critical illness or injury. When recovery requires continued hospital-level care, medically complex patients transfer to an LTACH before progressing to rehabilitation and eventually returning home.
Typical Care Progression
Our team works closely with referring hospitals and families to ensure smooth, safe transitions at every stage.
Who Needs LTACH Services?
Most patients transfer directly from intensive care units or hospital medical units and require ongoing complex care that cannot be provided in lower-level settings.
Common conditions include:
- Immediately following an ICU stay
- Prolonged ventilator support or ventilator weaning
- Complex respiratory conditions
- Ongoing dialysis for kidney failure
- Multiple IV medications or blood transfusions
- Advanced wound care
What is a Long-Term Acute Care Hospital?
Long-Term Acute Care Hospitals specialize in treating patients who require intensive clinical oversight and daily physician involvement.
Medical Oversight
- Daily medical visits
- Specialty physician consultations
- Complex medication and care management
24/7 Clinical Support
- Around-the-clock nursing care
- Ventilator weaning
- Onsite radiology
Intensive Therapy Program
- Physical, occupational, and speech therapy
- Early mobility and strengthening programs
- Discharge planning begins immediately
Specialized Care Backed by Experience
Our LTACH hospitals are uniquely designed to provide a seamless recovery experience and smooth transition to the next level of care.
- Dual-certified LTACH, IRF, and acute rehabilitation under one roof
- Seamless transition to rehabilitation services when appropriate
- Experienced interdisciplinary care teams
- Family-centered, compassionate approach
- Advanced rehabilitation technology and equipment
Whittier’s LTACH hospitals are accredited by The Joint Commission and received dual certification from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services for housing LTACH and inpatient rehabilitation services within the same facility.
Healing Happens Here: Real Recovery Stories
Patients and families trust our team to guide them through some of life’s most challenging moments.
Read inspiring stories from patients who regained strength, independence, and confidence through LTACH care.
What To Expect During an LTACH Stay
Every patient’s journey is unique, but most LTACH stays follow a similar progression.
- Transfer from ICU or hospital medical unit
- Average stay of approximately 25 days
- Daily physician oversight and specialized therapy
- Early discharge and transition planning
- Step-down to rehabilitation or skilled nursing care
- Safe return home when appropriate
Under Medicare guidelines, patients typically require a minimum stay of 25 days in an LTACH setting.
Focused Care Leads to Better Recovery
Patients treated in LTACH settings experience improved long-term outcomes and fewer setbacks during recovery.
Key benefits of Whittier's LTACH care:
- Daily physician oversight
- 24-hour respiratory care
- Coordinated discharge planning
- Reduced hospital readmissions
- Early introduction of rehabilitation services when medically appropriate
Speak with an Admissions Coordinator
Our admissions team works closely with hospitals, providers, and families to coordinate transfers and guide the referral process.
Central Admissions Office
(800) 442-1717