First, ask the discharge planner these questions
- Is she an inpatient, or on observation? Medicare only covers rehab in a skilled nursing facility after at least three days as an inpatient.
- Does the team recommend rehab first? Many people go to rehab for a few weeks, then to assisted living or a board and care home.
- What is the discharge date, and can it move?
- Can the doctor fill out the physician’s report (form LIC 602A)? Care homes need it before move-in. Getting it done before discharge saves days.
- Can she get a TB test or chest X-ray before she leaves? Care homes need that too.
- Can you send her medication list and therapy notes?
The three usual paths
| Path | When it fits |
|---|---|
| Rehab (skilled nursing), then a care home | She needs therapy to get stronger first. Medicare may cover part of it. |
| Straight to a board and care home or assisted living | She’s stable, but can’t safely be alone, especially at night. |
| Home, with home health and in-home care | Family can cover gaps and the house is safe. |
We know Fresno's hospitals
Nick worked at Community Regional Medical Center for 5 years. He knows how discharge works from the inside. We help families leaving Community Regional, Saint Agnes, Clovis Community, Kaiser Fresno, the Fresno VA, and local rehab centers.
Discharge coming up?
Call or tap below. We call back within 15 minutes (8am to 8pm), finds homes with openings, and works with the discharge planner for you.
What we do in the next 48 hours
- Call you back within 15 minutes, 8am to 8pm
- Find licensed homes with an opening that can handle her needs
- Talk with the discharge planner so you don’t have to relay everything
- Help with the 602A physician’s report and TB test
- Tour with you, or send video if you can’t leave the hospital
Updated September 2026 by Shaun and Nick, co-founders of CalValley Senior Living Advisors.