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LUH is SNF: What Does It Mean?
by Delaine Humphreys, Family Resource Center

Lower Umpqua Hospital (LUH) is a Skilled Nursing Facility. This designation means that LUH can supply the rehabilitation needs of patients after procedures such as knee or hip replacement, amputation, strokes or other serious illness. This rehabilitation prepares the patient to go back home and live as independently as possible. Family training is also provided so that the transition is smooth and the at-home recovery process continues.

Skilled nursing services which are deemed necessary and prescribed by a physician are covered by Medicare and most insurance. And how wonderful it is to know that you can get skilled nursing services close to home at Lower Umpqua Hospital where the nursing staff is friendly and experienced and the extended care unit is top-notch.

The Lower Umpqua Hospital rehabilitation staff is among the best on the Oregon coast. It includes Physical Therapists Katie Vasquez and Michael Gauvin, Physical Therapy Assistant Kathy Johnson, and Office Manager Cindy Rolen.

Katie Vasquez graduated with a BS in Biology/Psychology and an MS in Physical Therapy from the University of Colorado and has nine years of experience in home health, geriatrics, orthopedics, neurology and manual therapy. She is adept at developing a comprehensive exercise program for people with a variety of neurological and orthopedic problems. Vasquez also works with people experiencing balance problems or are at risk of falling, have work related, sports or motor vehicle injuries.

Michael Gauvin has a BS in Physical Therapy and an MS in Health Science and an MS in Physical Therapy. He practiced in the U. S. Air Force for fifteen years. Later he was the director of a 47-bed Skilled Nursing Facility. Gauvin specializes in treating patients with headaches and chronic pain. His unique approach to care often succeeds with patients who have not succeeded with other treatment methods. He also has a strong interest in geriatric outpatients and those with balance and gait problems and sports injuries.

Kathy Johnson, Physical Therapy Assistant, is the newest member of the staff and will assist with treatments. Cindy Rolen, the Office Manager, schedules appointments and handles insurance information.

When you or your family needs intensive rehabilitation, remember to choose Lower Umpqua Hospital with quality care, right here at home.

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