Inpatient Hospital Care Services

Compassionate, Comprehensive Care—Close to Home

At Madison County Health Care System (MCHCS), we provide a spectrum of hospital care, supporting you and your loved ones every step of the way. Whether you need short-term observation, skilled nursing care, or advanced cardiac monitoring, our dedicated team delivers high-quality, personalized service in a comfortable setting.

Observation Care

If you or a family member need additional monitoring or testing after an emergency room visit—but do not meet the criteria for a hospital admission—our Observation Care service is available. Observation stays are designed for patients expected to remain for less than 24 hours. During this time, you’ll receive attentive care as our medical team evaluates your needs and determines the best next steps for your health and recovery.

Skilled Nursing Care (Swing Bed)

Skilled Nursing (swing bed) services at Madison County Health Care System (MCHCS) help provide a smooth transition between a hospital stay and returning home. It’s your right to recover in the facility of your choice. If you or a loved one would be best served recovering in Madison County, you can request to be referred to Madison County Health Care System and utilize our Skilled Nursing services. We accept referrals from any hospital and will work directly with your insurance provider.

Our program gives you the tools, guidance, and encouragement to practice new habits in a safe, supportive environment. Our goal is to help each patient regain the highest level of function and independence possible.

Patients in this program typically receive physical or occupational therapy for up to 60 minutes per day.

Skilled Nursing staff at MCHCS provide care for patients who need:

  • Assistance with acute medical conditions
  • Stroke recovery
  • Wound care
  • Post-surgical care
  • IV antibiotics
  • Recovery from cardiac procedures such as stent placement, heart attack, or open-heart surgery

We’ll help you prepare to return home and thrive by providing:

  • Physician referrals and follow-up appointments, many of which can be scheduled right here at MCHCS
  • Rehabilitation services (physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy, and cardiac rehab when applicable)
  • Assistance in acquiring home health care and medical equipment

If you or a loved one need help transitioning from the hospital to home, Madison County Health Care System is proud to offer high-quality, personalized Skilled Care services close to home. We’re committed to making your stay comfortable and ensuring you recover safely and confidently.

Heart Monitoring (Telemetry)

For patients who require continuous heart monitoring, our Telemetry services provide attentive, around-the-clock tracking of your heart rate and rhythm. This service is essential for early detection of cardiac changes and helps ensure your safety during your hospital stay.

Amenities & Support

During your hospital stay at MCHCS, you’ll enjoy:

  • In-room dining delivered fresh from our on-site cafeteria
  • A private room with an in-room bathroom
  • 24/7 care by qualified nurses and medical professionals

Our team further supports your return home with:

  • Assistance arranging home health care and medical equipment
  • Referrals and appointments with MCHCS physicians and specialists

For compassionate, local care, count on MCHCS to guide you through every phase of your recovery.

Questions? Ready to learn more?
Contact Christy Christenson at (515) 493-8242.

Hospice Care Services

As part of our inpatient services, we are honored to support patients and families through every stage of their healthcare journey, including end-of-life care. Our Hospice Care services are designed for comfort, peace of mind, and compassionate support for both patients and their loved ones.

Hospice Respite Care

Caring for a loved one with a serious illness can be both rewarding and exhausting. When family caregivers need a temporary break, our Hospice Respite Care service provides safe, dignified short-term care in our hospital setting. Patients receive attentive monitoring, expert symptom management, and emotional comfort, ensuring families can rest and recharge.

Hospice Acute (Inpatient Hospice)

Sometimes a patient’s symptoms become too complex to manage at home. Hospice Acute Care at MCHCS offers specialized inpatient support for acute pain and symptom management, giving patients and families critical relief and peace of mind. Our team works closely with your primary care provider or hospice agency to ensure a seamless transition and continuum of care.

When end-of-life is near and hospital care is needed, we also have access to grant funding—helping eligible patients remain in our facility, close to home, rather than being transferred elsewhere.

What Makes Our Care Different?

  • Private, comfortable patient rooms with private family suite
  • 24/7 care from a qualified, compassionate clinical team
  • Focus on symptom relief, emotional support, and quality of life
  • Collaboration with your existing hospice provider when applicable

MCHCS is committed to helping you navigate difficult moments with dignity and compassionate support.

Would you like to speak with a team member about your options?
Contact Christy Christenson at (515) 493-8242.

Trusted Resources on Hospital Care Services

For additional information and guidance about skilled nursing and senior health, visit these authoritative government resources: