Rehabilitation and Medical Care After Acute Illness

This unit serves patients who need continued rehabilitation or medical treatment following a serious illness. Geriatric specialists assess whether this care setting is appropriate.

• Most patients face complex health issues, reduced physical or cognitive function, or social challenges.

• Patients undergo necessary tests and receive specialist consultations as needed. The average length of stay is 4 to 6 weeks but can be shorter or longer depending on individual needs.

• The focus is on activity and participation — patients are encouraged to stay mobile, wear their own clothes, eat in the dining room, and take part in therapy sessions.

• The goal is for patients to return home with the appropriate support. If discharge home is not possible due to health or functional limitations, a comprehensive health and functional assessment is completed in collaboration with the patient and their family. This also serves as an application for nursing home placement.

• If the application is approved, the patient selects the nursing home where they wish to stay. It is recommended that patients choose at least three preferred homes.

The National University Hospital (Landspítali) offers interim placements at L-3 at Landakot, and a waiting unit is also available at Vífilsstaðir, operated by Heilsuvernd. In some cases, temporary placements are available at nursing homes in the capital area.