Managing Medical Needs in a Nursing Facility: Can Your Loved One Keep Their Own Doctor?

assisted living Voorhees nj

When it comes to caring for a loved one in a nursing home and rehabilitation center, one of the most common questions families have is whether their loved one can continue seeing their personal doctor or if the facility will manage all medical needs on-site. This question is crucial, as maintaining continuity of care is often a top priority for families.

The good news is that in many nursing homes Voorhees NJ, residents can continue seeing their own doctor. However, there are some important details to consider. Let’s dive into how medical care is managed in a nursing facility, how care plans are created, and the availability of staff around the clock.

What Is a Care Plan?

A care plan is a personalized medical and health management document that outlines the specific needs of a resident. In a nursing home and rehabilitation center Voorhees NJ, the health plan is a vital tool in providing tailored care that meets the unique needs of each individual.

The care plan is developed shortly after a new resident arrives, based on a thorough assessment of their medical history, current health status, and care preferences. It ensures that each resident’s specific health needs, such as medications, physical therapy, and personal care, are met.

How Care Plans Are Created and Updated

Creating and maintaining a care plan involves several key elements to ensure that the resident receives the best possible care. First, a comprehensive health assessment is conducted by the medical team, which includes doctors, nurses, and therapists. This thorough review helps determine any existing conditions, treatments, and the level of care needed.

The health plan is regularly updated, typically whenever there is a change in the resident’s health. This could be due to an improvement or deterioration in their condition, or after any hospital visits. The updates are important to reflect the ongoing medical needs of the resident and ensure they continue receiving appropriate care.

Families are kept informed about these changes regularly. At Autumn Lake Healthcare, updates are shared through phone calls, emails, and scheduled family meetings, ensuring that loved ones are always aware of any changes in the care plan.

Can My Loved One Keep Seeing Their Own Doctor?

A significant question many families ask when choosing a rehabilitation center Voorhees NJ is whether their loved one can continue seeing their personal doctor or if they need to switch to a facility physician. Fortunately, many nursing homes, including ours, allow residents to maintain their relationship with their personal doctor.

If your loved one’s physician is willing to visit the facility or make house calls, they can continue providing care. This ensures that your loved one doesn’t have to switch to a new healthcare provider, maintaining a sense of continuity and comfort. Continuing with a familiar doctor can be especially beneficial if they are well-acquainted with your loved one’s medical history and preferences.

However, in cases where your loved one’s doctor cannot make house calls, the facility’s on-site medical team will take over the responsibility of managing their medical care. The team has a dedicated team of healthcare professionals, including doctors and nurse practitioners, who are available to handle routine check-ups and address any health concerns.

 

nursing home and rehabilitation center Voorhees NJ

 

How the Facility Manages Medical Needs Onsite

Most Voorhees assisted living facilities are equipped with on-site medical professionals who are available to manage a variety of healthcare needs. We offer access to a full range of medical services, including:

  • On-site physicians who can evaluate residents’ health and administer treatments. 
  • Nurse practitioners assist in managing long-term care needs and provide routine health assessments. 
  • Specialized services for residents with chronic conditions like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease. 

Even if a resident chooses to continue seeing their own doctor, the facility’s healthcare team will ensure they receive appropriate care in the event of an emergency or if the resident’s health changes unexpectedly. The medical team works closely with family members to make sure the care plan remains aligned with the resident’s needs.

24/7 Nursing Staff Availability: Peace of Mind Around the Clock

One of the most important features of an assisted living Voorhees NJ is the availability of nursing staff around the clock. Having 24/7 care ensures that residents are always looked after, no matter the time of day or night.

During the day, the staff manages medications, assists with physical therapy, and handles routine health assessments. When night falls, the staff continues their work, ensuring that any medical needs are promptly addressed. The team provides 24/7 nursing care to meet the needs of residents, offering peace of mind to both residents and their families.

Families can also rest assured that if a medical emergency arises during the night or on weekends, the staff is trained to respond immediately. If necessary, families are notified right away, either via phone or in-person meetings, depending on the situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can my loved one continue seeing their personal doctor while staying in a nursing home?
Yes, in many cases, your loved one can continue seeing their personal doctor as long as the doctor can make house calls or visit the facility. If not, the facility’s medical staff will take over their care.

Q2: How often do care plans get updated in a nursing home?
Care plans are updated whenever there is a significant change in the resident’s health or condition. Updates are also made after hospital visits or changes in medication.

Q3: Is 24/7 nursing care available at nursing homes?
Yes, most nursing homes, including Autumn Lake Healthcare, offer 24/7 nursing care. This ensures that residents have access to medical support at any time, day or night.

Q4: What happens if my loved one’s doctor is unavailable for house calls?
If your loved one’s doctor is unable to make house calls, the facility’s medical team will take over their care, including routine check-ups and emergency care when needed.

Q5: How do families stay informed about their loved one’s medical care in a nursing home?
Families are kept informed through regular updates, including phone calls, emails, and scheduled meetings with the care team. Families are notified about any significant changes in care plans or medical conditions.

To Sum Up

At The Subacute at Autumn Lake Healthcare, we understand how important it is for families to ensure their loved one’s medical needs are met with compassion and expertise. Whether it’s through maintaining a relationship with their own doctor or relying on our dedicated medical team, we are committed to providing the best care possible. If you’re looking for a nursing home or an assisted living option that prioritizes your loved one’s health and well-being, don’t hesitate to reach out or schedule a tour for more information.