These 5 facilities were selected to participate because of their reputation and because of a staffing mix that allows for service to residents with higher acuity level care needs. These units are staffed at 1 to 9 rather than the traditional facility 1 to 15 ratio of staff to resident. The facilities are paid on a contracted per-diem rate which is inclusive of room and board, nursing and therapy services, and discharge planning. Average length of stay during the study period was 14.3 days compared with 20.5 days in non-contract facilities. Re-hospitalization rates were lower in the TCC units.
Satisfaction is high among residents, staff, and physicians.