Full Definition

IRFs provide the most intensive post-acute rehabilitation available. To qualify for IRF-level care, a patient must be able to tolerate 3 or more hours of intensive therapy per day, require multidisciplinary rehabilitation (at least 2 therapy disciplines), and have a condition for which intensive rehabilitation is expected to produce meaningful functional improvement. The treating physician must certify medical necessity.

IRF outcomes for qualifying patients are generally superior to SNF rehabilitation — studies show faster functional recovery and higher rates of return to home for hip fracture and stroke patients who receive IRF-level care.

Medicare covers IRF care under the IRF Prospective Payment System with no day limit, as long as daily skilled service continues. Texas has IRFs at TIRR Memorial Hermann (Houston), Baylor Institute for Rehabilitation (DFW), Encompass Health facilities statewide, and other locations.