Swing Bed Program

What is Swing Bed?

Sometimes patients need a little extra time to recover before safely returning home. The Cimarron Memorial Hospital Swing Bed Program provides the transitional care many individuals need after an illness, injury, or surgery.

Originally created by the federal government to support rural communities with limited nursing home availability, the Swing Bed Program allows patients to “swing” from acute hospital care to skilled rehabilitation — while remaining in a hospital setting. Most patients stay in the same room throughout their stay.

This program combines skilled nursing and rehabilitation services in a personalized, supportive environment. Because every patient’s needs are unique, each treatment plan is customized to support individual recovery goals.

Who Qualifies for Swing Bed Care?

You may qualify for Swing Bed care if:

• You are recovering from an illness, injury, or surgery

• You no longer require acute hospital care but are not yet ready to return home

• You require skilled nursing services as defined by Medicare

Medicare eligibility requirements include:

• A physician referral

• A minimum three-night acute hospital stay within the last 30 days

• A qualifying medical condition that requires skilled rehabilitation or nursing care

If you were recently discharged home from a hospital but are struggling to recover, you may still be eligible for Swing Bed services. Patients hospitalized at another facility may also transfer to Cimarron Memorial Hospital for continued care.

Examples of Qualifying Conditions

Patients who may benefit from Swing Bed care include those needing:

• Recovery from stroke, cardiac, or respiratory conditions

• Wound care not manageable at home

• Skilled nursing services

• Physical therapy

• Respiratory therapy

• IV therapy

• Recovery after joint replacement or other surgeries

Length of Stay

Patients may remain in the Swing Bed Program as long as they have active rehabilitation goals to meet. Once those goals are achieved, patients may return home or explore additional care options.

Please note: Some commercial insurance plans may limit the duration of Swing Bed coverage.

Insurance Coverage

The Swing Bed Program is commonly covered by Medicare.

Many commercial insurance plans also offer Swing Bed benefits; however, coverage varies by plan. Patients are encouraged to contact their insurance provider to confirm eligibility and any coverage limitations.

We’re Here to Help

Whatever your recovery needs may be, the staff at Cimarron Memorial Hospital is committed to helping you take the next positive step toward better health.

For questions about the Swing Bed Program, please contact the Care Coordinator at

580-544-2501 ext. 140