§ Mr. SwayneTo ask the Secretary of State for Health how his Department defines intermediate care. [135836]
§ Mr. HuttonThe term 'intermediate care' describes a range of multi disciplinary, multi agency services designed to promote independence and improve quality of care, particularly for older people. The aims of intermediate care are to
Prevent avoidable hospital admissionFacilitate timely discharge from hospital, with an emphasis on active rehabilitationMinimise premature or avoidable dependence on long term institutional care.Intermediate care encompasses a wide range of service models and can be provided in a range of settings. These services can be provided in community-based settings or in the people's own homes, but may also be provided in step-down facilities within acute hospitals. The most intensive forms of rehabilitation should typically be provided in hospital.