Anyone know anything about nursing home/rehabs???

To make a long story short, DH's mom is in a skilled nursing facility right now for rehab. We were initially told she was on a 20 day program and than would be released. That has changed and they want to keep her longer, but Medicare will not be covering 100% after the 20 days. Apparently, DH's brother does not think she is getting any better there and basically wants to take her out. The facility is saying they will not discharge her b/c she is not ready. I guess DH's brother intentions is to get her outpatient physical therapy. (DH's brother handles her finances, care, etc. of course with input from DH though). My question is, can DH's brother just take her out of rehab without being released by a dr? Will Medicare penalize her in anyway?

Re: Anyone know anything about nursing home/rehabs???

i believe that if you leave without being medically discharged medicare can come after you for the money they paid out.

Re: Anyone know anything about nursing home/rehabs???

as for an ethics committee consult, they will help you and may get "tranfer orders" done for you

Re: Anyone know anything about nursing home/rehabs???

can they talk to a social worker there?? In most cases, i believe that if you leave 'against medical advice' that you end up being completely responsible for all charges... but it may be different because of the setting. i would definitely ask for a social worker though.