A Louisville-area skilled nursing facility is answering Gov. Andy Beshear’s request for support by opening a COVID-19 unit.
Hillcreek Rehabilitation and Care will begin receiving patients April 15 in Louisville-area, 33-bed unit. The Respiratory Recovery Unit at Hillcreek Rehabilitation and Care will serve patients with a positive diagnosis for COVID-19, making it one of few skilled-nursing facilities in Kentucky to provide beds to support overflow from area hospitals.
According to a news release, the unit is contained to a distinct area of the facility with a separate entrance and exit and a self-contained HVAC system.
“We’re pleased to partner with Kentucky’s Office of the Inspector General to support our Commonwealth’s COVID-19 patients during this unprecedented time,” said Tom Rawlins, Executive Director, Hillcreek Rehabilitation and Care. “We are honored to provide compassionate care for our most vulnerable population of seniors.”
Patients will be cared for by medical and housekeeping staff dedicated solely to the Respiratory Recovery Unit led by Dr. Kheder Kutmah. Dr. Kutmah will serve as the treating Medical Director and Pulmonologist for the Unit and Dr. Muhammad Babar will oversee the quality management system. Telehealth for all physician-related services and social services features prominently into the approach for care.
The medical team will also consult with an infectious disease physician for ongoing tracking and reporting of outcomes. Hillcreek Rehabilitation and Care received a deficiency-free infection control survey last week.
Patients will require a direct transfer from an area hospital, following initial assessment and treatment protocols, and must meet admissions criteria in order to be discharged to the Respiratory Recovery Unit. Once patients have been referred, family members can contact the facility directly to ask questions.
“We truly appreciate the commitment made by Hillcreek Rehabilitation and Care, in expanding their operations to serve COVID patients,” said Dr. Steven Stack, Commissioner of the Kentucky Department for Public Health. “We’re relying upon this type of dedication and leadership to provide extra support for our most vulnerable seniors.”
