Where does stroke rehabilitation take place?

You'll probably begin stroke rehabilitation while you're still in the hospital. Before you leave, you and your family will work with hospital social workers and your care team to determine the best rehabilitation setting. Factors to consider include your needs, what insurance will cover, and what is most convenient for you and your family.

The options include:

• Inpatient rehabilitation units. These facilities are either freestanding or part of a larger hospital or clinic. You may stay at the facility for up to two to three weeks as part of an intensive rehabilitation program.
• Outpatient units. These facilities are often part of a hospital or clinic. You may spend a few hours at the facility a couple of days a week.
• Skilled nursing facilities. The type of care available at a nursing facility varies. Some facilities specialize in rehabilitation, while others offer less-intense therapy options.
• Home-based programs. Having your therapy at home allows greater flexibility than other options. One drawback is you likely won't have access to specialized rehabilitation equipment. In addition, insurance strictly controls who qualifies for home-based therapy.

Talk to your doctor and family about the best option for you.