What is a Transitional Care Unit? Does Insurance Pay for it?

A transitional care unit (TCU) is a licensed, skilled nursing unit for patients who can’t go home when discharged from acute care in the hospital. Patients receive the additional therapy they need which can include physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and/or IV therapies. We help to restore normal function, helping patients with mobility, self care, pain control, and communication. Our focus is on independence, getting the patients to where they can go home and safely participate in the activities of daily life. Depending on the diagnosis and amount of therapy required, patients can spend a few days to a few months in TCU.

Does insurance pay for treatment in the Transitional Care Unit?

Medicare and most private insurance cover treatment in TCU. Medicaid programs such as Medi-Cal do not.