Marsha Labbe, BSN, RN, Swing-Bed Unit Manager
Northern Maine Medical Center is closely monitoring the Corona Virus pandemic and is prepared to respond to the evolving situation following CDC guidance and protocols.
To be consistent with CDC guidance, Northern Maine Medical Center is implementing the following steps in order to protect the public and slow the transmission of the virus.
Due the recent events of newly reported COVID-19 cases in the greater Aroostook County area, we have reassessed potential risk to our most vulnerable population. In doing so, we have made the decision to close visitation to Forest Hill and the NMMC Swing/Rehabilitation Unit at this time.
We understand that this represents a hardship for families and residents, however, we believe this decision to be in everyone’s best interest for safety.
We will keep you apprised of changes as they occur. We sincerely thank you for your understanding and support of our decision.
Swing-bed programs are intended to treat rehabilitation-oriented medical conditions, such as orthopedic injuries as opposed to chronic conditions. At the point when the patient needs only follow-up care, that patient would no longer medically need to remain in the hospital for high-tech monitoring or complex diagnostic procedures, but the patient is still one step away from home-based care or recovery. The goal of the swing bed program is to return the patient to a permanent living situation as soon as possible. Although the patient under the swing-bed program is in the hospital, the emphasis is on returning the patient to their home or other living situation.
The patient remains at the hospital and sometimes even in the same room and bed. The patient primarily benefits by fewer disruptions and continuity in care during the healing process. The only change for the Medicare patient under a swing-bed program is the level of care.
Mrs. Verna Daigle of Fort Kent was one of the first patients to receive the new service at NMMC. Daigle said, “It was nice to be able to stay right here to get my care instead of having to move to another facility before eventually going home.” The caregivers and medical professionals in charge of the medical care “swings” as the patients’ medical needs change. To learn more about eligibility for this service, contact Marsha Labbe, RN, Swing-Bed Unit Manager at 207-834-1685.
Swing-Bed Program Informational Brochure