General Questions
What's the difference between inpatient, residential and partial hospitalization?
There are four primary levels of care for people with mental illness or chemical dependency. The first three levels - inpatient hospitalization, residential treatment and partial hospitalization - are available at Rogers Memorial Hospital.
- Inpatient Hospitalization:This intensive level of treatment requires 24-hour care in a secure (locked) unit of the hospital. Inpatient treatment is necessary for those who need constant nursing care, those who are severely depressed or suicidal, and those who are unable to break the cycle of their illness in a less restrictive treatment setting. Because of the short-term nature of inpatient treatment, a major focus is to stabilize symptoms and develop a plan for continued treatment of the illness outside the inpatient program. This level of care is offered at our Oconomowoc and Milwaukee (West Allis) locations.
- Residential Treatment: The residential treatment centers at Rogers Memorial Hospital's Oconomowoc campus offer an intensive and structured treatment program similar to the hospital's inpatient units, but in a more home-like environment. While each of the residential centers utilizes medical staff, it is not on a 24-hour basis; therefore, residents must be declared medically stable prior to admission. Some individuals are admitted directly to residential treatment while others first go through inpatient treatment and then transfer to a residential program. Individuals in our residential centers benefit from 24-hour supervision and treatment as their disordered behaviors have become so habitual or addictive that trying to eliminate them on an outpatient basis can be nearly impossible.
- Partial Hospitalization (Day Treatment): This level of care is designed for individuals who need structured programming but do not need 24-hour supervision. Rogers Memorial Hospital offers partial hospitalization or day treatment services at four locations in southeastern Wisconsin. Our treatment services are designed to provide support, education, medical monitoring and accountability during the hours of the day often identified as most troublesome for patients. Patients participate in therapeutic groups, structured activities and discharge planning similar to those offered in the inpatient and residential programs. Many patients who have been in an inpatient or residential program can "step down" to this level of care because it continues to provide a high amount of structure and support.
- Outpatient Treatment:The majority of people with mental illness and chemical dependency are treated on an outpatient basis, where they see treatment providers one to three times a week for ongoing counseling and support. Rogers Memorial Hospital does not provide outpatient treatment services; instead, we work closely with your current outpatient providers or assist you with finding an outpatient therapist to help maximize the gains made during your stay.
How often will I see the doctor?
You will meet individually with your attending physician for an initial evaluation and then periodically during your stay to discuss treatment options and medications. In between these sessions, if you have something you need to discuss with the physician, please speak with the social worker/counselor/nurse who is designated as your primary contact person for assistance.
Will the doctor change my medications?
As part of your initial evaluation, the attending physician will review your current medication(s). If your attending physician feels it is necessary to make an adjustment to your current medication(s), he/she will discuss this with you.
Is cigarette smoking allowed while I'm at the hospital?
Per Wisconsin law, smoking is allowed for adults only (18 years of age and older). If you do smoke, you must observe the hospital's smoking policies and confine your smoking to the designated areas and times. Smoking is not permitted during programming.
Can I bring my laptop?
Due to lack of computer jacks and limits on internet access, laptop computers are not allowed. Personal video gaming equipment, PDAs, ipods and any other electronic equipment is strongly discouraged. Rogers Memorial Hospital will not provide reimbursement if these items are damaged, lost or stolen during the treatment stay.
Can I bring my cell phone?
Cell phones are not permitted in the inpatient unit. Cell phones are allowed in the residential program, with staff permission; however, usage is limited to free time. For the partial hospitalization program, cell calls are not permitted during group times. To protect the privacy of patients, picture/camera phones are prohibited and will be sent home.
What if I don’t like it here after I'm admitted?
If you have voluntarily sought treatment, you may request to terminate your stay at any time. However, your request must be reviewed by the attending physician before a discharge order is given. The best time to leave the treatment program is when you and the treatment team are in agreement that your treatment goals have been met and arrangements have been made for continuing your treatment after discharge.
How long will I be at Rogers Memorial Hospital?
The length of stay is open-ended and has many variables to be evaluated and considered (such as past history, current status and stage of your illness, the support systems in place for continuing care, risk factors, response to treatment, etc.).
What happens when it's time to leave?
The treatment team works with each patient to develop a continuing care plan. The plan will include specific goals that will support your recovery after leaving Rogers Memorial Hospital. A continuing care plan may include outpatient therapy with a physician, counselor, family therapy, and/or support groups.
Who do I contact if I have questions, concerns or compliments about the staff, the program or the hospital?
We value your feedback; if you have concerns, compliments or additional information you think could improve our treatment services, please share that directly with your therapist or program manager prior to your discharge. Customer Feedback Forms are available at the staff office if you would prefer to express yourself in writing. Your suggestions will help us continuously improve the hospital for our patients and their families.
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