What type of care is provided in a hospital or long-term care facility for patients needing more assistance than chronic care but less than acute illness care?

Subacute care is designed to bridge the gap between acute care and chronic long-term care. It is a specialized form of medical care that caters to patients who require a level of care that is more intensive than what is typically provided in chronic care settings, yet not as intensive as that needed for patients with acute illnesses. This type of care usually occurs in specialized units within hospitals or in long-term care facilities and focuses on stabilizing patients' health conditions, managing chronic diseases, and providing rehabilitative services.

Patients receiving subacute care often have conditions that need monitoring and management, such as recovering from surgery, serious illnesses, or complex medical conditions that require more than just basic nursing care. This setting allows for a higher level of clinical care without the full resources of an acute care hospital, making it an ideal option for individuals who need assistance with daily activities or medical needs but do not require the level of intervention typical in nursing homes.

In contrast, outpatient care generally refers to services where patients receive treatment without being admitted to a hospital. Rehabilitation primarily focuses on helping patients regain specific skills or improve physical function after illness or injury and can take place in various settings, not exclusively in long-term care. Hospice care, on the other hand, is designed for patients who